Join us as we explore how the late Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi (d. 2014) wove together his pioneering vision of spiritual eldering, based on a creative reading of Kabballah and Hasidism, as well as various modern psychological, ecological, and theological works. We will dedicate specific attention to Reb Zalman’s understanding of the life stages and different rungs of consciousness. This will lead us into a discussion of the role of the “sage” in various Jewish mystical sources and possible applications in contemporary culture.

Growing older can present many challenges: physical aging in a society with a serious youth bias; loss of identity (finding meaning beyond the working world), for some, loneliness, or the sense that the world has left them behind. But the reality of change at any age implies not just loss but new beginnings, a sense of renewal, creativity, and the chance to find a greater sense of purpose and day-to-day happiness.

During the second half of life, we are called to turn from our outward focus on career, success, achievement, and materialism to the “inward arc” in order to heal old wounds and expand our higher consciousness. This workshop is for those who are willing to take this inner journey and come to a deeper understanding of life and its spiritual lessons.

The transition from mid-life adulthood to elderhood is a consciously chosen extended rite of passage with the same dynamics that have characterized rites of passage throughout history around the world—dynamics termed by Joseph Campbell and others as the Hero’s Journey. In this webinar, we will explore these dynamics (severance, liminal time, reincorporation) and the inner work that can enable us to grow into the elderhood of purpose, passion, and service that is possible for all of us if we have commitment and strong intentionality.