BOOKS
SECOND WIND NAVIGATING THE PASSAGE TO A SLOWER, DEEPER, AND MORE CONNECTED LIFE
D
r. Bill Thomas considers himself the ambassador of elderhood, and his mission is to change the way society perceives aging. Baby Boomers are now on the precipice of elderhood, the third stage of life that follows childhood and adulthood. Second Wind situates the postwar generation within their historical context in order to explain why we regard aging in such a negative light, and gives guidance to recognize and navigate the most challenging and fulfilling developmental stage of life. Dr. Thomas examines how the Baby Boomers, by their sheer numbers, shaped American culture of the 20th century, and delineated the parameters of what is considered a successful adulthood—a stage too commonly referred to as the peak of one’s life (what Dr. Thomas refers to as “the cult of adulthood”). Baby
Boomers were at the height of their power during the 1980s and 90s, when they collectively determined their value was based on their earning capability, productivity, and effectiveness. Now, many feel they are living a life of frenzied disharmony, driven by their previously determined values. Dr. Thomas recommends a path toward a more balanced life with developmental opportunity. Ultimately, how Baby Boomers deal with aging—by fighting, reluctantly accepting, or enthusiastically embracing it—will be their greatest legacy. The crux of the book, and the heart of Dr. Thomas’ mission, is his advocacy to reconsider elderhood as a stage of life for continued growth, and a time to see ourselves in terms of what we will yet become instead of what we have been. 45