Some of my Stories

LATE IN LIFE, by Jane Klassen



Late in life we naturally focus on endings

We might cling to or savor what seem last chances

and though we are blessed with many chances, as I've been

there are times when we discern an inevitable end

Like aging or dying

Sometimes there's grace and wisdom in surrendering

May we surrender gently.

Often it's late in life before we know that to live fully

, we must keep learning and practicing diligently,

or quickly lose ground

And we must: have pauses, a slower pace,stillness and letting go

in late life we know that in loving fully, we're poised

-in the balance between having and losing

And poised in the balance

-and between celebrating and grieving

In late life we've learned how to simultaneously

attach, step back and wish well

As with the great love it takes to:

- let go of our children

-or a great love not meant to be sustained

We learn how to simultaneously

, allow for space, for evolution and the unknown

Late in life we grow in awe and gratitude for the openness

transparency, wisdom and capacity to articulate

in younger generations

We hone our capacity to remain open to love,

or to feel great desire and longing

Then to rest in the great heart

And turn gracefully back to the present moment

over and over and over