We all get older, but we need to work at “getting elder.” Unfortunately, there are no rites of passage for becoming an elder. You’re on your own and, in our ageist society, aspiring to be an elder feels pretty old-fashioned.
Nonetheless, shifting from older to elder is a profound quest. It’s crossing the divide between lamenting loss and leaving a legacy. Business psychologist Dick Buckles coined the term “Elderquest,” which I rather like as it suggests there’s almost a Hero’s Journey for owning and sharing one’s wisdom.
As I journey through the later part of my midlife, I’ve found that life not only lengthens but also deepens—emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually. I try to look at my life with unvarnished insight, recognizing that with possibly less time ahead, there’s a stronger sense of urgency to ‘seize the day’ and embark on this elder journey. On good days, the mantra “I am here to serve” guides my actions, anchoring me in purpose and service.
If you’re intrigued by the idea of embracing and harnessing your wisdom, MEA’s curriculum offers an entire pillar dedicated to this journey, aptly named “Owning Wisdom,” which offers a variety of workshops centered around this theme, including my workshop from April 22-27 in Baja, also titled “Owning Wisdom.” One of the greatest gifts you can give yourself is discovering and sharing your unique wisdom with the world.
-Chip
P.S. Pilar Guzman, the Editorial Director of Oprah Daily, has an interview coming out with me this morning, but I didn’t have the URL before our publication deadline so check it out at https://www.oprahdaily.com/ Speaking of Oprah, we have two of her favorite people on the planet teaching at MEA Baja in February and, remarkably, there’s still space available for both of them. Mark Nepo is one of Oprah’s favorite living poets and is teaching Feb 5-10 on Falling Down and Getting Up: Discovering Your Own Strength and Resilience. And, Tracee Stanley is one of Oprah’s favorite mindfulness teachers and is leading Feb 19-24 on The Power of Deep Rest. Get out of the cold and experience the warmth of MEA Baja.