Making Peace with Growing Old

Most people want to grow old, but few people want to BE OLD! This conundrum creates a challenge for many of us.  How do we continue to grow and live a meaningful and satisfied life as we journey through the last quarter or third of our lives?

I recently discovered a Buddhist prayer that offers us a gentle framework as we struggle with the issues and concerns in our lives.

As I grow older, may I be kind to myself;
As I grow older, may I accept joy and sorrow;
As I grow older, may I find contentment in all of my days.
As each of us grows older, may we be kind to ourselves;
As each of us grows older, may we accept joy and sorrow;
As each of us grows older, may we find contentment in all of our days.
As all beings grow older, may they be kind to themselves;
As all beings grow older, may they accept joy and sorrow;
As all beings grow older, may they find contentment in all of their days.

Written by Lewis Richmond, author of Aging As A Spiritual Practice: A Contemplative Guide to Growing Older and Wiser.

Go ahead – TRY this simple prayer as you begin your day, or at any point in your day. 

You can also make your own prayer, focusing on areas in which you need assistance.

And, remember as they say “Aging is Not for Sissies!”

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