Many CJFS services have been modified due to COVID-19. For current information contact us at jfs@cjfsbham.org or 205.879.3438
By Stu Jaffe, LCSW, Clinical Director
I recently completed a wonderful book entitled, Wise Aging: Living with Joy, Resilience, & Spirit, by Rabbi Rachel Cowan and Dr. Linda Thal. It invites us to a new stage of life--active aging--and gives us the tools we need to embrace it. Much of what I share in this month’s Counselor’s Corner is inspired by this reading, as incorporated into my own view of aging well.
Chapter 9 begins with the following quote from Martin Buber: “Every person born into this world represents something new, something original and unique...There has never been someone like him (you) in the world, for if there had been...there would be no need for him (you) to be in the world. Every single person is a new thing in the world and is called upon to fulfill her particularity.”
How are you called to serve the world and the people in it? Do you answer this question easily? If not, consider the following potentially useful prompts:
If you find it difficult to answer the questions above, either on your own or with the help of friends or loved ones, consider calling CJFS for the support and guidance of a licensed therapist. With your therapist, you can work on practical strategies to build resilience and navigate the challenges of aging while finding joy and meaning.
In Wise Aging, Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen tells of her grandfather’s ability to celebrate life regardless of the challenges life presented him. “My grandfather told me that ‘l’Chaim!’ meant that no matter what difficulty life brings, no matter how hard or painful or unfair life is, life is holy and worthy of celebration. Even the wine is sweet to remind us that life itself is a blessing.”
May each of you feel blessed in the days ahead and enjoy living into the questions found here.
Best, Stu
If you find yourself struggling to find the joy and meaning in life, a CJFS counselor may be able to help Licensed Clinical Social Workers from CJFS offer individual and family counseling for people of all ages. To arrange a consultation, email Stu Jaffe, stu@cjfsbham.org or call 205-879-3438.
CJFS proudly serves people of all religions, races and income levels.