Wisdom Circles: A Community of Elders

How many of us have stopped to think in our elder years about what community means to us now? Are we looking for something different than at a younger age?  If yes, do we know what that is?

For some of us, we were not sure what we were seeking, other than we had a yearning for something, a deeper connection, a thirst for engaging with other kindred spirits. We inadvertently or serendipitously, or consciously found a Wisdom Circle. We knew we had found what we were looking for: a connection with other like-minded elders, a safe place to share our challenges and joys about aging as well as delving into conscious eldering.

For myself, it felt like coming home. In the Wisdom Circles in which I participate, we have been exploring a wide variety of topics that are not normally discussed with family and friends: topics that challenge how we see aging, how we presence conscious aging in our lives, how we come to terms with our body not responding the way it used to, to name a few.

I also enjoyed delving more deeply into questions about what is left for me to live, experience and to contribute. What brings meaning into my life? With whom do I wish to spend my time and energy? I enjoy a simpler life. I appreciate and am grateful for the life that I have.

What we experience in Wisdom Circles is influenced by the facilitator and the participants. Also, the topic chosen, and the questions provided to explore the topic more deeply, impact the depth and breadth of engagement we share. We often leave the Wisdom Circle a little wiser and at times, feel it has impacted our lives in some way that makes a difference.

From the discussions we’ve had in our Wisdom Circle, my perspective on aging has changed. I experience more resilience in facing what is becoming more prevalent – less energy, facing death of loved ones, and sudden changes to life’s circumstances. As I’m 71, I do wish to become more resilient in these matters as I hope to shift my focus from my physical being to my spiritual essence as I approach the last quarter of my life and the inevitable movement towards death. I don’t expect it to be easy, but I know it will be worthwhile.

If this speaks to you and you would like to find out more about Sage-ing International Wisdom Circles, whether to join one or to start one, please send an email to: wisdomcircle@sage-ing.org. It will be a pleasure to answer your questions.

Questions for you to consider: Where/with whom is your spiritual community? Do you have a safe place to discuss your concerns, fears, apprehensions about aging? Do you have a place to talk about what you enjoy and appreciate about aging and/or conscious aging?