The Artistry of Aging
“Reclaiming our sense of wonder in the everyday, ordinary moments of life” is something that often happens to us as we reach elderhood. Capturing that sense of awe that was a given for many of us when we were a child is now our precious gift in the latter years of life.
“This post is dedicated to women especially. A reminder that the essence of who we are shines even more brightly once “cultural beauty standards” are surrendered and released and we accept another kind of beauty. One that is so much more about who we have become and are becoming.”
“Perhaps it is the yearning of the heart that draws us to notice the ordinary beauty all around us. To not only notice but to allow it to expand our perception of life in the moment by opening to see beyond the narrow confines of our present cultural narrative and domesticated survival.
“It suddenly captured my attention from the sofa where I was seated in the home of a client where I was staying to care for their German Sheppard. Sitting on the mantel absorbing the morning light and radiating out into the room. A simple object that in its simplicity and beauty reminded me of an ancient art piece woven with gold, bronze and light.
A representation of light capturing natures essence in leaf, spiral, curves and spaces.
In those moments I was…..”
“With so much violence and unrest going on among humans, I have recently gravitated towards consciously finding the beauty in everyday ordinary experiences. This soothes my broken heart, even for just a moment in time, and releases me into a calmer more peaceful inner being and appreciation.
Knowing that beauty is everywhere reminds me to be more kind, compassionate and trusting. To see and create beauty and find joy wherever it beckons. To be in nature often….”
“Being an Elder is not defined by age, but rather Elders are recognized because they have earned the respect of their community through wisdom and actions or their teachings; through the vibrancy that radiates out from their presence and the unique artistry that only they can bring into the world.
Let us return to acknowledging elders in the fullest sense of the powerful presence they can be and are becoming. Respecting the life artistry that has been necessary to bring them to where they are today.”
“I invite you to meet Eileen Kramer through her movement, her words…..and even what is not being spoken but is so apparent – her creative Spirit – in the video below filmed when she was 103.”
“No matter what your gender is these words by Judi Dench remind me what is important as I age….and what is definitely not. What a remarkable face she has, as does the man below.
I would imagine that the stories these elders will tell you and the wisdom they share is worth the price of admission. Admission to elderhood and the remarkable and at times challenging journey of aging.
I decided in an instant today to really look at my aging face in the mirror….. like a lover would gaze at their beloved. …..”
“Grounding humility within is essential to any possibility of joy. In what seems like a world gone “crazy” we fall into a space of humility when we know as human beings we can’t solve everything nor control all aspects of our life. “