I had a lovely time at the Life Course Scholars retreat. Our day consisted of introductions, community building activities, lectures, discussions, a guest visit from Trish Benesh, mindfulness coastal walks, and a "when I'm 80" thought exercise. A lot of things profoundly stuck out to me this day. I had to think really hard for the "when I'm 80" thought exercise, because literally no one has ever asked me that before. I usually only get asked where I think I'll be in 5-10 years. Also for a very long time, I honestly never expected to live that long. Thinking that far ahead just felt really unnatural for me. However, I really enjoyed the activity simply because I love planning in general.
The mindfulness coastal walk was wonderful - I really felt connected to nature and more at peace in that moment. I felt truly grateful to be able to enjoy the space to its fullest. However, I could not help but think of my grandmother on this walk. I do not think that she would be able to enjoy it due to the incline and stairs on the trail.
Professor Lewis told us about her 81 year old friend who skiis and rides a motorbike. She also noted that there are many professors that age who still teach full time. Hearing these stories made me reevaluate what I want for myself when I reach 80. I would still like to retire but hearing about these individuals was a good reminder that adventure and action don’t end while you’re older.
The mindfulness coastal walk was wonderful - I really felt connected to nature and more at peace in that moment. I felt truly grateful to be able to enjoy the space to its fullest. However, I could not help but think of my grandmother on this walk. I do not think that she would be able to enjoy it due to the incline and stairs on the trail.
Professor Lewis told us about her 81 year old friend who skiis and rides a motorbike. She also noted that there are many professors that age who still teach full time. Hearing these stories made me reevaluate what I want for myself when I reach 80. I would still like to retire but hearing about these individuals was a good reminder that adventure and action don’t end while you’re older.