Life after 60
Conversation 1 – Family and Background
Quotes:
“You don’t choose your family. They are God’s gift to you, as you are to them.” ~ Desmond Tutu
“Family faces are magic mirrors. Looking at people who belong to us, we see the past, present, and future.” ~ Gail Lumet Buckley
Questions for Sharing
- Where were you born and raised?
- What was your community like?
- In what communities did your parents grow up?
- What kind of work did your parents do?
- Who was in your family?
- What was growing up in your family like?
- What are some of your memories of childhood?
- What traditions have been passed down in your family?
- Who were your favorite and least favorite relatives?
- What are classic stories, jokes, or songs from your family?
- What are some “sayings” you remember from your mother or father?
- What memories do you have of family activities?
Beyond Conversation 1
Write down some of your family history and memories that you would like to pass down to future generations.
Conversation 2 – Thankfulness
Quotes:
“Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of thanksgiving.” ~ W. T. Purkiser
“Gratitiude is the best attitude.” ~ Author Unknown
“Hem your blessings with thankfulness so they don’t unravel.” ~ Author Unknown
Questions for Sharing
- If you were writing a letter to someone for whom you are thankful, who would you write and what would you say?
- In what places have you lived? What place did you enjoy the most?
- What do you miss about places you have lived? Is there anything you do not miss?
- About what in your life do you like to reminisce?
- What was one of the happiest moments of your life?
- What other memories bring you pleasure?
- What changes are happening in your life?
- With what stereotypes of aging do you agree or disagree?
- Who has blessed your life and helped to make you who you are?
- What transitions in living arrangements do you anticipate or have you already made?
- What have you learned from your past that helps you live for today?
Beyond Conversation 2
Write a note or letter of thanks to someone who has been important to you in your life.