Let Evening Come: Reflections on Aging

by Mary C. Morrison

A daring, yet gently written reflection on one of life's most important periods, Let Evening Come has the sensitivity and humor that will appeal to readers of any age. Mary C. Morrison explores the changes that take place as one ages, the gradual movement away from the center of life--work, family, community--to the periphery. Without glossing over the negative and depressed feelings that this can cause, Morrison highlights the benefits of relaxation, pure enjoyment , and time for reflection that old age can bring. The author shows how finding gallantry, dignity, and a positive outlook amid the changes aging brings is possible and rewarding.

Genres: Nonfiction

144 pages, Hardcover

First published August 6, 1998

About the author

Mary C. Morrison (1910-2003) devoted her life to family, teaching and writing. A major focus of her work was the gospels. She taught in a variety of settings, including Pendle Hill. The open-ended study questions she honed over years of teaching are available in Approaching the Gospels Together: A Leader’s Guide for Group Study. She recorded her own views on Jesus in Jesus, Sketches for a Portrait.

Mary Morrison and her husband, Maxey, raised a large and loving family. She considered herself 51% Episcopalian and 49% Quaker. She wrote her final Pendle Hill pamphlet, Gift of Days, out of retirement at 92.

Reviews

[Cindy Rollins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary C Morrison was in her 80s when she wrote this but it is sprinkled with her journal entries from earlier aspects of ageing too. I found that offered helpful insights. As I stand in the batter's box of late middle age, this book offers me comfort and wisdom. I will return to this book again and again, I imagine.

[Cat Rayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Engaging and wise, Let Evening Come by Mary C.Morrison encourages those entertaining the aged years to meet the calendar and the physical transitions with grace.

The book was subtle in expressing the common place some elderly find themselves, in defeat. Those who complain constantly an bemoan lost youth. This is unnecessary, and a waste of life. Ms. Morrison hardly stops there, dwelling instead on the peace, joy and acceptance to be found.

This will be a fine reminder as an annual read as the years, If given the gift of more, add more gray and challenge physicality.

Get it for anyone transitioning from a long time home, or a parent or grandparent who struggles. But keep a copy for yourself, you are not far behind...

[Chrissy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This may be the most beautiful book I've ever read. It brought me to tears and put a peaceful stillness in my heart.

[Linda Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a small book - just 134 pages. It relates sporatic thoughtd/writings by the author Mary C. Morrison, about different aspects of aging. It's certainly thought-provoking, some of which is uncomfortable as I myself age. Still, I would recommend it, especially for seniors to read.

[Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book that you can read a page at a time. Very reflective and meditative. I took my time with the book and enjoyed it.

[Dr. Sabrina Molden · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a lovely, heartfelt book, filled with much inspiration and wisdom about successful aging. I am so delighted that I found this little gem, read in one sitting.

[Cammie Arneson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Talked about aging. Okay for our book club, since we are an aging grouo.

[Virginia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very thoughtful book about accepting the changes in aging and embracing the slowing down by accepting the solitude and silence to reflect, observe and enjoy what is around you.

[Cecelia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this contemplation on aging in a few hours as part of a discussion group for aging seniors who are also members of the Shambhala Meditation Center of Portland. The leader is joyful, inspiring and open to whatever is next, but the book at times was a melancholy journal of the author's "courageous capitulation". We all inevitably age, deteriorate in body and stamina, but I wanted more humor and maybe a touch of anger and real grief a la Dylan Thomas from "Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night". I want to be at peace with dying, especially in the final hours, but for me this book encouraged too much of the inner journey, and not enough dancing 'til the end.

[Ayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

i liked the writer's spare, clear narrative style.
here again are real-life examples of
well-intentioned people being quite ageist
without having a vocabulary to name it that.

[Tony Taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lovely book for reflection

[Carroll · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book to mom while she was hospitalized...except the final chapter.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful book of reflections on aging with grace, peace and joy.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really liked this little book.