Elderhood implies a long and varied life and wisdom arises from reflection and examination of our life’s journey. At times it can be painful to re-examine some of the things we have done and said, to look at the ways we have treated ourselves and others.
What we are today is summation of all that we have experienced. We would not be who we are without all our successes and failures. As we re-examine and re-frame our past we develop a deeper self-awareness and wisdom. In the process we may well find that we have changed our attitude to ourselves into one that is compassionate and perhaps we will extend that compassion to others.
A wise elder develops the ability and willingness to listen and avoids imposing belief systems on others but helps create space and safety to explore and find their own unique path.
Psychology Today: Looking at Wisdom From Mid-life
Psychology Today: "Nine Guidelines for Ageing With Wisdom"
Kindred: practices that foster your elderhood development
Next Avenue: "A few words to the wise (and not so wise) about ways to gain wisdom."
Science Daily: "study confirms adage that with age comes wisdom"
Good Men Project: Becoming a wise old man.
Ram Dass: "Why is it so important to come to terms with aging?"
See also the Wisdom page.