Living Longer, Living Better
The place of religion and the spiritual in how we age is a subject that is gaining increased attention. It seems we boomers are quite invested in our search for meaning and purpose. It also seems that we will not be content with “pediatric” religious communities and easy answers to life’s challenging issues. Likewise, we will not be afraid to engage in discussions on the role of the spiritual in arenas that may have seemed off limits a generation ago. Proof of this can be seen in the recent Time magazine stories based on its February 23, 2009, cover headline “How Faith Can Heal.”
In a series of articles, the magazine detailed the growing awareness that there is a distinct and powerful link between a person’s mind and body and spirit. The research into this has been ongoing for years. In truth, statements from a wide variety of religious traditions show that this is a basic belief. Science has now discovered this truth and, as the magazine reported, has been involved in more than 6,000 studies of the role of intercessory prayer since 2000. Yes, the results are mixed. Let me, however, speak to an aspect of all these studies that we often overlook and one that is increasingly important to all of us as we “mature.”
What seems to be constant in all of these discussions is the power and importance of relationships in each of our lives. Why do people who are affiliated and active in their religious community live longer? Most likely for the same reason that people who remain involved socially and continue to be engaged with life report a higher life quality in their longevity. The answer is the power of relationships. Being with and for other people, in community and service, helps provide definition to our life, meaning to our existence, and, it seems, years to our life. Religion can be a means through which relationships evolve and prosper and one’s own spiritual path can be broadened and explored. All of this can add a sense of purpose and allow us to celebrate the gift and mystery that is each of our lives.
In future columns, it is my hope to explore some of this richness of the spiritual with you and welcome your stories and reflection.
Rabbi Richard F. Address, DMin
Published March 9, 2009
Rabbi Richard F. Address, DMin
Rabbi Richard F. Address, DMin, is the director of the Department of Jewish Family Concerns for the Union for Reform Judaism. The mission of this department is to work with congregations to create “caring communities” that have as their foundation a theology of sacred relationships. You may contact him at rabbirichardaddress@jewishsacredaging.com.
