contemplation

Contemplation is personal reflection. Recently, I have been contemplating retirement. I can’t believe it myself. Where does time go?

This transition from worker bee to retiree reminds me of the concept of “Luminal Space”. Richard Rohr in his book, “Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life” defined luminal space as a time between “What was” and the “Next”….a time of waiting and not knowing. There are lots of emotions tied to his period of not knowing- like anxiety, uncertainty and even excitement. These luminal spaces are common throughout life- even if we don’t name them such. It’s the transitional stages, like when we start a career, get married, lose a loved one, change careers, have children, get them all out of the nest,  face illnesses or even move into retirement.

This is a counterintuitive experience for me. I am used to being busy, having a full schedule, thinking I am in control- not- this period of waiting and not knowing. It is unfamiliar. This period takes being in touch with your inner self. The answers are not in my head- they must rise up within. It takes more time “just being” rather than doing.

Walking in nature helps us understand there are cycles of life. What’s next- will come, when it is time. There are seasons to life. Who knows what the next one will bring? I am already reading and exploring more things. Maybe, I will spend more time writing!! Wouldn’t that be fun?:)