As I sit here in contemplating the right words to express about the essence of Vibrant Eldering, I wonder, who am I to be writing about it? I consider myself an ordinary man, shaped by life’s trials and triumphs, bearing the scars of past struggles, yet carrying an unwavering hope for the future.

It is times like this that I question my ability to articulate topics as meaningful as this. My journey has been anything but perfect—many of my wounds were self-inflicted. My hearing has never been the same since I set off a cherry bomb between two rocks I was holding—at the reckless age of eighteen.

As a student, particularly in high school, I struggled—most often neglecting my English classes and studies. To this day, my grammar remains flawed. Thankfully, modern technology now corrects most of my mistakes before my words reach you.

Despite my early shortcomings, I believe I wouldn’t be true to my heart in writing about Vibrant Eldering if I didn’t already see myself as somewhat of an example today. At eighty-four, I am blessed to share life with my amazing wife, Helene, whom I cherish deeply. I remain active—usually golfing eighteen holes twice a week—and fully engaged in our church community, where Helene and I are dedicated, regular members.

For the past three years, I have hosted a monthly caregivers’ meeting. I now co-lead a “Connecting, Sharing, and Caring” gathering at our church—an opportunity for members to come together, build meaningful connections, and support one another. Through all of that, I have been my wife’s primary, and loving Alzheimer’s disease caregiver. She was diagnosed six years ago with early stage Alzheimer’s.

Currently, I am in the final stages of publishing my first book, Reflections of the Heart, which is now available. Beyond that, I continue to write and share my essays, reaching—and hopefully inspiring—hundreds, if not thousands, of readers.

And, we each have our own way of remaining active! Intentional vibrancy takes us to a deeper level of being. It’s about consciously honoring and applying your accumulated wisdom for the better good. It’s about actively giving back.

As I write, I am humbled by the mystery of where the words come from. I can only attribute it to God’s guidance. My hope is that something within these reflections resonates with you—or another who finds greater meaning for themselves.

So, what Is Vibrant Eldering?

Vibrant Eldering is an invitation—a call to embrace the journey of becoming and being an active elder.

It takes a conscious commitment to flourish at every stage of life—to move beyond past wounds and old programming, and embrace a more vibrant way of living.

Elderhood is a sacred season—a time of wisdom, depth, and boundless possibility.

•   It’s about learning from and honoring the past while living fully in the present.

•   It’s about growing deeper in wisdom, not just older in years.

•   It’s about stepping forward with purpose and meaning, not retreating into obscurity.

As we walk the path of Vibrant Eldering, we do so not as passive observers of life but as active participants—mentors, storytellers, way-showers, and lovers of all that is still to come. Aging is not the dimming of life’s light; it is the dawn of a new and vibrant stage in life, a new horizon!

A Shift in Mindset

Society often frames aging as a decline—a slow fading of relevance and energy. But what if, instead, we saw it as an ascent into deeper wisdom, greater connection, and a profound sense of purpose?

This is the heart of Vibrant Eldering—a mindset that embraces growing older as a dynamic, fulfilling, and sacred phase of life. It’s not merely about adding years to our lives, but about adding life to our years—a life rooted in faith, wisdom, and love.

Scripture reminds us that elderhood is not a time of retreat, but a season of spiritual depth, guidance, and service.

“Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.”

—Proverbs 16:31

To be a vibrant elder is to wear the crown of wisdom—a role God calls us to embrace with humility and joy.

The Practices of Vibrant Eldering

A fulfilling elderhood doesn’t begin with retirement or the twilight years. It begins now—in the mindsets, choices, and habits we cultivate at every age of life.

Nurturing Physical and Spiritual Well-being

Caring for our bodies through movement, nutrition, and mindfulness.

Deepening our spiritual lives through prayer, reflection, and trust in God's plan.

Cultivating Emotional Resilience

Practicing gratitude, forgiveness, and acceptance.

Navigating life’s inevitable changes with grace and wisdom.

Remaining Intellectually Curious and Spiritually Fulfilled

Pursuing lifelong learning—through reading, discussion, travel, and meaningful experiences.

Deepening our understanding of Scripture and letting God’s Word guide our path.

Strengthening Relationships and Community

Fostering deeper bonds with loved ones and nurturing intergenerational connection.

Becoming mentors, encouraging and uplifting those who follow in our footsteps.

What we do today shapes who we become tomorrow. When we care for our bodies, minds, and spirits with intention, we pave the way for a vibrant and purposeful elderhood.

The World Needs Elders

One of the greatest misconceptions about aging is that it marks a period of withdrawal—stepping back from work, leadership, and impact. But Vibrant Eldering reminds us: our opportunity for contributions do not diminish with time; they deepen.

Moses was 80 years old when God called him to lead His people.

Abraham was 100 when Isaac was born.

The world needs elders who lead with wisdom, humility, and faith—those who illuminate the path through mentoring, prayer, service, and love.

“You are never too (young or) old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”—C.S. Lewis

A Legacy of Love

Perhaps the greatest gift of Vibrant Eldering is a legacy of love. It’s the opportunity to love more freely and fully than ever before.

•   Relationships matter more than accomplishments.

•   Time with loved ones outweighs status or accumulation.

•   Presence becomes more powerful than productivity.

If you’re not already actively engaged, consider this your invitation. Embrace Vibrant Eldering as the dawn of a new and resounding horizon in your life.

“Our greatest legacy is not measured in accomplishments, but in the love we have given, the kindness we have shown, and the wisdom we have shared.”—from my book, Reflections of the Heart, published by Byblio Press and is now available!

Helene and I are truly blessed and thankful for you and your support!

Here is a note from the publisher, Byblio Press: “From the entire team at Byblio Press, we congratulate you on becoming the author of an amazing book!” Available on Amazon!



Feel free to share this with those within your circle of connection.

Love and Blessings in 2025, Ron & Helene