Quotes from Morrie Schwartz

Here's how Polly Francis expresses her sense of a spiritual connection. A new set of faculties seem to be coming into operation. I seem to be awakening to a larger world of wonderment—to catch little glimpses of the immensity and diversity of creation. More than at any other time in my life, I seem to be aware of the beauties of our spinning planet and the sky above. And now I have the time to enjoy them. I feel that old age sharpens our awareness.32

If we can make peace with dying, we can finally make peace with living.

You don't have to be nice all the time—just most of the time.

Resist the temptation to think of yourself as useless. It will only lead to depression.

You can find joy in practically any situation if you are open to the experience of happiness.

The best preparation for living fully and well is to be prepared to die at any time, because impending death inspires clarity of purpose, a homing in on what really matters to you.

I've experienced waves of hopelessness and despair, alternating with determination and enthusiasm for living.

I've experienced increased insecurity because of my increased vulnerability to illness.

recognize, with a slight shock, that I really don't believe how old I am, and when I do believe it I want to forget it.

There is no forced retirement from aging creatively.

Later life is a special period of development, with unique limitations and opportunities. And it may be the most important phase of your life. You can change a lot in later life—if you really want to.

believe that trying to become the best person we can be, aging well, and coming to terms with our issues might be the most important and meaningful goals to strive for in later life.