More links for the Archives subsection

Select One News Archives Faith Stories Archives Profiles in Faith Archives Thea Resources

The Wisdom Years

Inner Light

by Bernice Olson-Pollack


Where do aging souls go to when the natural progression of life journeys closer to the setting sun? The shadows of impending darkness peer around every corner as they wait to embrace the night. Evening has come. It is time for all elders to seek the light inside.

Oh, that I were as in the months past!
As in the days when You watch over me,
while You keep Your lamp shining above my head,
and by Your light I walked through the darkness;
Job 29: 2-3

Sisters Praxedes, left, and Mary Luca Wertalka

The Open Door of Unconditional Acceptance welcomes aging persons who are prepared to step into the inner light without pretense. Once they enter, all superficial determinants of self-worth are removed. It is understood that their personal value is not measured by physical appearance or any incredible deeds done. No longer is it necessary to compete for a place in the outer world. Once beyond the threshold, the cloak of this external existence is laid aside. The bounty of living with intention is carried inside to be shared with others who are also mindfully present.

For You see not as man sees;
man looks on the outward appearance,
but You look within the heart.
1. Samuel 16: 7

Worry is a foreboding shadow. It follows those who are afraid of what is yet to be. The fretful old must turn their anxious hearts toward the inner light. Inside, they will find the Seat of Faith. It beckons them to sit and rest. The burdens on their minds are lifted as they ease back into faith’s reassuring support.

The Lord is near. Dismiss all anxiety from your minds.
Present your needs to God in every form of prayer and in gratitude.
Then God’s own peace, which is
beyond all understanding,
will stand guard over your hearts and minds.
Philippians 4: 6-7

Sister Phyllis Ann Hackman

Those aging who seek contentment don a Shawl of Peace. Its warmth deters the draft of discontent. Peace comforts the quivering feelings of uncertainty. It gently enfolds weary shoulders with its intricately woven patterns of security, consolation and relief.

Come to me, all who are weary and find life burdensome,
I will refresh you.
Take my yoke upon your shoulders and learn from me,
for I am gentle and humble of heart.
Your souls will find rest, for my yoke is easy
and my burden light.
Matthew 11: 28

Fortunate elders learn to recognize the simple gifts given to them in every day. They awaken beneath the covers of a warm bed in the morning. A nourishing meal is eaten and enjoyed midday. Friends and family call in the evening to share their stories with their aged loved ones.

Before sleep arrives, wizened older adults invest their thoughts to reflect upon yet another day lived with intention. A perceptive review provides them the opportunity to sip from the warm Cup of Gratitude. The taste of each moment lived, although sometimes poignant and bittersweet, is still appreciated.

At midnight I rise to give You thanks
because of Your just ordinances.
Psalms 119: 62

The Light of Love illuminates the hearts of sages. The glowing embers of their inner wisdom are passed on to others. It is an invitation to come in from the darkness. Enlightened older adults include a delicate breath of intention to help kindle the fires of those who also wish to experience life from the inside out.

For God, who said “Let light shine out of darkness,”
has shone in our hearts, that we in turn might make known
the glory of God shining on the face of Christ.
2. Corinthians 4: 6

Sister Joyce Bantle, center, poses with Santa and Mrs. Claus during a December 2005 visit.

(Key phrases in this article are taken from “Being Our Own Lamp” from The Woman’s Book of Soul by Sue Patton Thoele.)

As he was dying, the Buddha said, “Be a lamp unto yourself.” I think he was challenging us to become aware of our spiritual essence, to read ourselves by our own light, to follow the path that resonates with our own hearts and minds right here, right now. As we recognize our own unique light, we can choose to shine it on people and places that need illuminating. For the good of the world, as well as our own personal good, it is vital that we tip over the proverbial bushel and become aware of the beautiful and distinctive light we have been given to share.

Quaerite lumen intra.
“Look for the light that is within you.”
(Latin translation provided by Sister Lucille Kleinheinz).

Click here to return to the Perspectives page.