Home > 
Finding Personal Direction

"Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one, wild and precious life?"
from the poem 'The Summer Day' by Mary Oliver

Finding our way as we age and discovering the true wisdom within, is really the essence of what it means to get older. It takes courage and encouragement to be willing to look inside and discover ourselves anew. Who are we now, as we are older and able to create a life of our own choosing? We need to be gentle and kind with ourselves as we work the soil of new beginnings within us, as we build our confidence in being able to uncover the answers within. It is a wonderful discovery of self as we begin trusting that we have the answers to forge a unique path at this time of transition.

Finding deeper meaning takes courage and encouragement and that is what you will find in the essays of seven Twin Cities authors. These essays contain a treasury of ideas, concepts, sharing and wonderful questions for the journey.

• Connie Goldman suggests that we need the 'courage of the lobster' in being willing to change.
• Vern Drilling shares strengths needed to feel a sense of success in our lives.
• Jim Gambone lists core values of belonging, giving back and taking risks for us to consider.
• Janet Hagberg explains how relational journeys are really spiritual ones.
• Trish Herbert says life isn't about getting happier, it's about getting deeper.
• Sandra Hirsh shares an approach to finding spiritual and life gifts, personality, values and passion.
• Dick Leider encourages us to take our place of wisdom at the new elder's fire.

In claiming our courage and finding the answers to the questions within, we may surprise ourselves. Please explore the pathway to "Finding Personal Direction" on the Vital Aging Network website.

Page author Karen Greer conducts workshops titled "Retirement of Opportunity” She began work in ‘retirement’ nearly 20 years ago and today consults with individuals about retirement, career and lifestyle issues and teaches through the Compleat Scholar program. She has a Master’s Degree in Adult Education and her website is www.karengreerconsulting.com.