Description
Book SynopsisPersons of all ages struggle to survive losses and rewrite their life stories. Self-help books abound, yet seldom do we stop to consider living resources, the wise old persons who are among us. Gerontologists Janet L. Ramsey and Rosemary Blieszner have recorded narratives of spiritually resilient German and American women and offer here a rare combination of listening, personal story telling, and professional reflection. Avoiding simplistic answers and acknowledging the ambiguity of human experience, the authors give voice to a remarkably unheard group: strong old women. In this unique book you will find unforgettable stories of courage and faith but also provocative suggestions on how to enrich your clinical and academic work through an increased emphasis on spiritual coping. The authors also emphasize the importance of acknowledging emotions in spiritual experiences, and integrating faith and close human relationships.
Table of ContentsPART ONE: INTRODUCTION TO SPIRITUAL RESILIENCY An Invitation to Listen Questions of Meaning, Stories of Faith Overview of Study Methods PART TWO: THE STORIES The Gracious Encounters Begin The American Women The German Women Resiliency and Community Resiliency and Emotion Resiliency and Personal Relationships PART THREE: CONCLUSION Implications for Thinking, Being and Telling Implications for Gerontology
