Now we are beyond the narcissism of youth, above the survival struggles of young adulthood, beyond the grind of middle age, and prepared to look beyond ourselves into the very heartbeat of life. We can do what our souls demand that fully human beings do. This is the moment for which we were born.
Joan Chittister, OSB is a Benedictine Sister of Erie, PA.
She is the author of over 50 books including
The Gift of Years: Growing Older Gracefully
“The reason that I picked this quote is because it is so counter cultural. All of our society really teaches us that everything meaningful that’s going to happen to us happens at a younger age. And everything that happens after midlife is an afterthought. I first read this quote when I was transitioning from midlife to older age and it blew my mind. It told me that the best and most meaningful parts of my life were going to be ahead of me. This was going to be the moment for which I was born. It resonated with me because I do believe in God, and I don’t believe God makes mistakes. Ultimately, you have stand at a far enough distance to see that perspective. I’m beginning to understand I’ve made the sacrifices, I’ve gone through the fiery gates, I’ve done the hard work of growing older, and now that I’m old, I understand what Joan Chittister meant. I can tell you I am in the moment for which I was born.” 
Carol Orsborn, Ph.D. is the author of
Spiritual Aging: Weekly Reflections for Embracing Life
