Mid-life changes focus of workshop on spirituality

Many people put their dreams and ambitions on hold because of life's realities: families to support, bills to pay, obligations to meet. But even those who followed their dreams of youth may be now looking for a change, searching for meaning or asking new questions: "What should I do with the rest of my life?" or "What is the meaning of my life anyway?"

Deacon Charles Hall III has some answers in an upcoming workshop on mid-life spirituality. He is spiritual director for Wellsprings Sabbatical Program for Christian Ministers in Glens Falls and chaplain at the Capital District Psychiatric Center in Albany.

Direction

"Although mid-life is not the only age at which a person might benefit from spiritual direction, it is a time of transition, a mid-point in life's journey. Our connection with God ultimately represents the lifeline that will help us adequately negotiate mid-life's moments. To walk with a spiritual guide during these difficult years can be a most beneficial and transforming experience."

His workshop will explore the dynamics of mid-life and the value of spiritual direction during that phase of a person's life.

Time to reflect

"The first half of our life is spent on 'doing' things -- finding a mate, marrying, raising children, getting a good job. We are externally projected," he noted. "As we reach mid-life, we become introspective, reflecting on where we are going. As we face the second half of our lives, many questions are raised: 'Do I stay in this rut I'm in? Do I know what my God-given gifts and talents are? Will I use them?'

"We often feel boxed in. To have the freedom to honor the self and engage those things you want to do, as opposed to what one feels they have been expected to do, to help someone discern the beauty and potentiality of the second half of one's life, is what spiritual direction is about."

(Deacon Hall's workshop on mid-life spirituality is part of a series titled, "Spirituality and Healing," sponsored by the diocesan Consultation Center. His will be offered Oct. 18, 7-9 p.m. at the Pastoral Center, Albany. Registration is $10 before Oct. 12. After that, it is $12. The Consultation Center can be reached at 489-5189.)

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