57. Spirituality for skeptics: the inner life of older adults

Are you a bit skeptical about spirituality? Do you wonder whether you even have a spiritual life? And whether this might help you in old age? Michael Fitzsimons, a wise and open-minded poet, cancer survivor and former trainee-priest, explores spirituality for skeptics, beginners and believers alike.

We explore some interesting ideas including these:

maybe everyone prays, whether we know it or not



another phrase for spirituality is your inner life



you are constantly urged to work on your individual body and career, but a strong inner life can vastly expands your view



belonging to a religion doesn't suit everyone, but it can provide a framework to support you in old age



many older people naturally become more mellow and accepting



gratitude and wonder are the heart of a spiritual life.

As we finish our discussion, Michael suggests a simple daily habit to heighten awareness and enrich your inner life— regardless of whether you are a skeptic or a believer.

Resources relevant to this episode:

This Jungian Life: Prayer and the psyche (podcast)



Michael, I thought you were dead (poems by Michael Fitzsimons)



High Wire (poems by Michael Fitzsimons)



Deciding to be happy in old age: Dale Copeland (interview with someone whose theme song is gratitude: 'I'm so lucky!'