Second half of life (Y-not question the Sunday Readings)

by Ynot , Saturday, July 14, 2012, 13:47 (315 days ago) @ Sue

]I think it means that in the second half of life we do set out on our own search for spiritual wisdom, and part of that process is giving ourselves time for reflection and study, perhaps doing the occasional retreat, or seeking spiritual guidance when someone's teaching attracts us.

But what of that final renunciation? Not everyone would come to that unless their search has been particularly intense and focused. My feeling about that final renunciation is that it is not about a change of lifestyle, it is not about leaving home and family. It is purely an inner matter.

The final renunciation is the walking away from all religious beliefs, from all images and concepts of God, from all desire for spiritual experience, even from that person regarded as spiritual guide or guru. It is the entry into the cloud of unknowing, where the inner self stands naked, spiritually impoverished, before the mystery. What happens there is beyond words, only hinted at by Jesus, when he says,

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven"

Thank you, Sue for this survey of practices in other traditions. And especially for this ending: the Second Half of Life. I am so glad to read about this, never having encountered the concept in the catholic tradition - not as you explain it among the Hindus. But being in the latter part of that second half, I can see so clearly the good sense in this.

I noticed Chris Geraghty say to Philip Adams: "I don't think there should be young priests! They should be elderly people. 35 yrs of age, at least." I reckon they would be just beginning the long steep curve of learning at that age, opening onto the period of wisdom as they enter the second half of life. Wouldn't this be a simple thing to do: Stop worrying about providing sacraments to people and giving children classroom catechesis, and start re-adjusting our idea of the meaning of life, of spiritual growth, of freedom and of love - things that become clear with the passage of time, and which those who have finally come to see can call younger ones upwards to share as they grow. Oh dear! Grandparents know all this - but I've some way to go before I get that privilege.

Enjoy and Share the Second Half!
tony

'TonyL
"A post is a free gift, and it will go where it pleases."'