Bücher von Ronald Higdon

What was anticipated to be "the Christian Century"certainly did not live up to that lofty expectation. To thecontrary, it has led us into a new century with moreuncertainties, questions, doubts, and anxieties than we evercould have imagined. Whatever happened to "Don'tworry, be happy"? Simply put: there are now many morereasons to worry than to be happy (however one defineshappiness). Stress, anxiety, apprehension, worry, fear -whatever else you want to add to the list - appear to bemajor ingredients in a life gone global. Our concerns are nolonger local, regional, or even national. The flutteringwings of a butterfly any place in the world can cause apowerful wind of destruction right in our ownneighborhood.

As the years increase, so does my gratitude and appreciation for the many congregations where I have been privileged to pitch my tent on my sojourn of faith and ministry. I only wish that the resources I have found through family systems, the Center for Congregational Health, and the Alban Institute had been mine to share with the earlier congregations. I am not the same person or minister I was when I first assumed pastoral responsibilities. However, this is always the way life - even the life of faith - works. We can only be who we are and where we are. I'm grateful I'm not still there. Colleagues and friends continue to enrich my life and contribute greatly to my ongoing development both personally and professionally. Their encouragement and support have led to this second publishing endeavor. This book is dedicated to my two sons, Mark and Michael. They have continued to exhibit the qualities of integrity and hard work, doing what they believe they are called to do regardless of how it turns out. Their high principles and ethical behavior continue to convince me that my wife and I must have done something right! We certainly don't take credit for their achievements but recognize they have come a long way in mastering the art of letting go as I have tried to describe it in this book.

In a youth oriented culture where old age is almost regarded as the unpardonable sin, there is not much space in our daily lives for the discussion of the one reality that is inescapable - aging.This book brings the good news that discussions about aging can bring new purpose, meaning, and hope to all of life - regardless of your present age. It is a book filled with perspectives and suggestions that can make the advancing years truly golden in the sense of satisfaction, meaning, and fulfillment. Come along with the author (who is 80+ years old) on the journey through this book and see if it was worth the trip. You may be surprised at the number of discoveries and new insights you will find which can enlighten and enliven all of the remaining days of your life.Aging Is Not Optional includes challenging questions for reflection and discussion. It's suitable for individual or small group use, or for a church study.