Fridays, Mar 15, Apr 19, 1-2:30 pm

Location: Room 302

Register online or call 319-356-5220

Facilitator: Thomas Dean

Elderhood involves much more than the accumulation of lived years. Elderhood evolves when those lived years contribute to a special wisdom and vision that are shared with the community and society. In many ways, elderhood is the pinnacle of developing one’s wholeness as a person. Writer, speaker, and teacher Parker Palmer defines wholeness as an “undivided life,” when our inner “soul” (our “inner source of truth” and our complete selves) is in concert with our outer role (putting our true self into action). Coming into this wholeness is a lifelong process, and it continues in elderhood. Palmer’s “Circle of Trust” approach invites the individual soul to show up in a safe space, where it can be heard and supported by a trustworthy community. This monthly discussion series will follow the Circle of Trust approach as we explore what it means to “become elder” and how we might bring our life wisdom and unique gifts to others. We will base our discussions on short readings by various authors, though no preparation will be needed. Come to one session, some sessions, or all of them!