The need for change as we get older?an emotional pressure for one phase of our lives to transition into another?is a human phenomenon, neither male nor female. There simply comes a time in our lives?not fundamentally different from the way puberty separates childhood from adulthood?when it’s time for one part of ourselves to die and for something new to be born.
The purpose of this book by best-selling author and lecturer Marianne Williamson is to psychologically and spiritually reframe this transition so that it leads to a wonderful sense of joy and awakening.
In our ability to rethink our lives lies our greatest power to change them. What we have called “middle age” need not be seen as a turning point toward death. It can be viewed as a magical turning point toward life as we’ve never known it, if we allow ourselves the power of an independent imagination?thought-forms that don’t flow in a perfunctory manner from ancient assumptions merely handed down to us, but rather flower into new archetypal images of a humanity just getting started at 45 or 50.
What we’ve learned by that time, from both our failures as well as our successes, tends to have humbled us into purity. When we were young, we had energy but we were clueless about what to do with it. Today, we have less energy, perhaps, but we have far more understanding of what each breath of life is for. And now at last, we have a destiny to fulfill?not a destiny of a life that’s simply over, but rather a destiny of a life that is finally truly lived.
Midlife is not a crisis; it’s a time of rebirth. It’s not a time to accept your death; it’s a time to accept your life?and to finally, truly live it, as you and you alone know deep in your heart it was meant to be lived.
The Age Of Miracles; Embracing the New MidLifeNovember 29, 2008 By far, the most common sense book on who we are at midlife. You cannot help but be affected as you listen to the cd and it dawns on you that every word Marianne Williamson utters makes complete and perfect sense. It's as though she knows you and is speaking to you personally. You will come away not only with a new knowledge of who you are as a middle aged person, but as who your parents, siblings and children really are as well. It provides amazing insight into the human psyche. It's simply a must read. If you don't have it - GET IT. And then, share it with everyone else you know.
A wise reframing of midlifeNovember 25, 2008 Marianne Williamson feels and writes deeply about spiritual matters, and about finding one's destiny among the spoils and ruins of youthful vigor. She lovingly probes the potential that lies before us at any age -- the potential for miracles and miraculous transformation -- but especially when our external clock has cycled into the 50s and 60s.
Her musings urge us to soften our perspective on lifestyle, personal decisions and relationships. She argues that we need to grant ourselves spiritual permission to care deeply about matters immaterial and to weave these considerations into our lives. She sprinkles her book with thoughtful prayers that we would do well to remember in daily meditation.
This is a book worth revisiting, in whole or in small bites. Each chapter stands on its own, providing guidance and comfort. Overall, the chapters nourish and complement any faith or belief system. She points to the sacred center of all belief, and asks us to align ourselves with it. While the book may seem slight to some, don't be fooled. Its sublte embrace will feel good, as hugs from those who care always do.
Women - great book for all ages!November 24, 2008 Marianne's wisdom is such a welcome example of the so called "mid-life" that a lot of us currently find ourselves. I'm a firm beliver that 60 is the new 40 and I'm blessed to experience that fact each and everyday of my life. The reason it is so easy for me is the availability of books like this one that remind us of "who we really are" and show us a kinder, gentler way of "being" in this world. I would recommend this book to any woman, but especially those who don't yet understand how blessed we are to have reached this glorious mid-life experience!
Consistent Messages from MarianneOctober 6, 2008 1 out of 1 found this review helpful
Marianne Williamson is the best known interpretor of A Course in Miracles and a highly reference spiritual writer in many New Age circles. Her works over the years have reflected her thoughts and philosophies of how the Course relates to stages in life. Her lectures and writings have great appeal and this latest book is geared towards mid-life oriented wisdom. Many core beliefs are similar to those expressed in other books by Marianne. However, there is less new stuff here as other reviewers have noted. A worthy read but unless you are familiar with A Course in Miracles it may not resonate with you. The Course in Miracles has been around a long time and general acceptance of the text is a given in metropolitan areas. But the text itself has had its share of controversy.
Wonderful CDSeptember 22, 2008 0 out of 1 found this review helpful
This Cd has come to me in a time of my life when I really needed to know someone else knows just how I feel. Marianne is a great speaker and does a excellent job with the aging process that we all don't want to face.
