1 R Special Advertising Section | Sunday, October 23, 2022 15 decided to join its weeklong retreat at Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, NewMexico. His group of 14, which included people in their 50s to their 80s, spent several days engaging in spiritual practices, exercises and discussions. For his culminating ritual, called a “solo journey,” Govaars selected a private spot on a riverbank. After passing through a portal formed by two trees (and having a close encounter with a bobcat), he fasted, maintained silence, read poetry, journaled and wrote “legacy letters” for his two children. “I just spent a lot of time in thinking and meditation,” he said, deeply moved by the experience. “The outcome is hopefully a greater sense of happiness and purpose,” he explained. “I feel calmer. I feel much more introspective. I listen with an open heart and mind. I may look the same, but I am different.” In addition to helping people see old age as a phase of life with purpose and rewards, along with the more commonly recognized challenges and deficits, rituals for older adults may affect others, Leardi pointed out. “They benefit the community,” she said. “You might have little kids there — young people, other elders —watching you go through this, hopefully aspiring to this. You cross the threshold and walk into your future.” Most older adults, of course, will have the late-life ritual of a funeral or memorial, a remembrance some may plan themselves. That, too, involves contemplation of their lives, their contributions and accomplishments. But while some older adults plan their own memorials, they do not hear the hymns or poems, remembrances or eulogies. But Oxman did see his family and friends celebrate him and his role in his synagogue, his community and the world. He heard his rabbi bestow a blessing and tell the gathering that Oxman had spent his days wisely. “Your presence is felt,”Kamesar said. “Your legacy is accounted for. You matter, in a significant way, and in some ways, that’s all we’re here to do in this world.” !"#$%&'(&)*%%*+$ continued from previous page Your new lifelong friends are waiting. At Fairwinds – Brighton Court, the day is always yours. With a variety of classes, activities, and social events, you can play as much or as little as you’d like. Our friendly staff plays friend-maker too, making sure all new residents !nd the social scene that works best for them. Call now to ask how to save $2,500 off your third full month of rent if you move in before November 30th. 6520 - 196th St SW| Lynnwood, WA (425) 247-3713 | FairwindsBrightonCourt.com Write a legally valid will for FREE! Scan to learn more! Everyone should have an estate plan to support their future, save their family stress and protect what they love. FreeWill’s self-help solution for common estate planning needs help you create a legal will for free. Get started today and create a legacy with Make-A-Wish Alaska & Washington at freewill.com/makeawishakwa. Leave a legacy for Make-A-Wish
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