Rich in Years: Finding Peace and Purpose in a Long Life

by Johann Christoph Arnold

Rich in Years: Finding Peace and Purpose in a Long Life [paperback] Arnold, Johann Christoph [Aug 01, 2013]

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian Living, Spirituality

161 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2013

About the author

People have come to expect sound advice from Johann Christoph Arnold, an award-winning author with over two million copies of his twelve books in print in more than twenty languages. A noted speaker and writer on marriage, parenting, and end-of-life issues, Arnold was a senior pastor of the Bruderhof, a movement of Christian communities, until his death in April 2017.

Arnold’s message was shaped by encounters with great peacemakers such as Martin Luther King Jr., Mother Teresa, Dorothy Day, César Chavez, and John Paul II. Together with paralyzed police officer Steven McDonald, Arnold started the Breaking the Cycle program, working with students at hundreds of public high schools to promote reconciliation through forgiveness. This work also brought him to conflict zones from Northern Ireland to Rwanda to the Middle East. Closer to home, he served as chaplain for the local sheriff’s department.

Born in Great Britain in 1940 to German refugees, Arnold spent his boyhood years in South America, where his parents found asylum during the war; he immigrated to the United States in 1955. He and his wife, Verena, have eight children and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Reviews

[Sharon Huether · Rating 4 out of 5]

A series of authors share their thoughts of aging with God's care and the enrichment of humor in our daily lives.

These stories help us to know that God is always with us and how to encourage the older community.

Aging is a normal life process, giving hope to families and caregivers

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Blessings of Growing Old

Old age doesn't have to be a frightening time. Many people as they age experience health problems, loss of loved ones, and loneliness. However, as Arnold points out, there are many ways to make a difference and fill your life with purpose. Even for the old, life can be rewarding.

The book is organized around a series of stories about how seniors handle the problems of aging. Arnold challenges us as we get older to become more joyful. Loss of independence, disease and loss of friends can lead to clinging to the past and feeling depressed about what is no longer possible. The people whose stories fill this book have gotten beyond that point. In spite of the circumstances they have learned to thank God for the gift of life and to give to others.

My favorite chapter is “Finding Peace.” As the possibility of death becomes a reality, many people look for peace, but peace can be illusory if we are burdened with old hurts and grudges. Arnold counsels facing these problems rather than letting them fester. Confronting problems can lead to a breakthrough that brings peace to our last days.

I loved this book. The stories of people aging with grace is very uplifting. In fact, the advice in this book could help people of all ages. I highly recommend it.

I reviewed this book for Handlebar Marketing.

[Linda B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rich in Years, Finding Peace and Purpose in a Long Life is another wonderful book from Plough Publishing. Getting older is not an easy process, and we often confront fear, disappointment, and physical and mental changes. The author uses life experiences and the experiences of others to offer advice and encouragement as we face some of these life changes.

I would say this book is primarily for Christians, and although I didn't agree with every doctrinal statement in this book, I appreciated the author’s outlook on later years and the ability to use our talents or even find new ones. There was not doubt that his focus was on our spiritual service.

You may think this book is just for old people, but I would also encourage younger people to read it too. You will gain great insight into the thoughts of your parents or grandparents, and just may learn something to do now to prepare for the day when you walk where they are. For those of us having reached these years, it can be a source of great encouragement and provide lessons for pressing on to make the time we have left a life of service and devotion.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A quick read and very inspiring.

[Colleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a quick read with kind advice and thoughtful insight to the aging process. Its appeal is probably limited to a specific group of readers, but to that group, it has spot on insight and inspiration. As the title suggests, the book describes the aging process from the eyes of someone experiencing it. The author has also interviewed many people to get multiple perspectives. It is a timely read for anyone experiencing their bodies slowing down but whose minds still brightly burn! I would recommend it to family members and care givers supporting aging adults as it offers a glimpse of the challenges the aging face in their unique world. The book covers topics such as aging, loneliness, finding renewed purpose, dementia and even comfort for those left behind when a loved one passes. I do need to offer an advisory on its very prominent religious overtones. If you are someone who is offended by the mention of religion or Christianity, then this book is probably not going to be a good fit. If you have a strong faith, or are not offended by the mention of Jesus and the Bible, then I think you can find some useful messages. Whatever your faith, the author’s words are gentle, humble and are given with a full heart.

[Kristin Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this book for free at Joy Delight (a roadside stand in the mountains where we enjoy getting ice cream) a few years ago. It is written by a Bruderhof Pastor. It is an encouraging reminder of the value of growing old and the valuable place Seniors have in society.

[Juanita · Rating 2 out of 5]

I think this book would be better suited to someone of retirement age. Lots of positive stories in there but I did not relate to many of them.

[Kate · Rating 1 out of 5]

"Why shouldn't growing older be rewarding?
"Johan Christoph Arnold, whose books have helped over a million readers through life's challenges, wants us to rediscover the spiritual riches that age has to offer.

"Now in his seventies, Arnold finds himself personally facing the trials that come with aging. But he knows, from decades of pastoral experience, what older people and their caregivers can do to make the most of the journey.

"In this book, he shares stories of people who. in growing older, have found both peace and purpose."
~~back cover

I hadn't expected this book to be so based in Christian theology, and it was difficult for me to see past that and to appreciate the spiritual lessons.

[Travis · Rating 4 out of 5]

There was much to appreciate in this little book. It addressed many of the fears, hopes, and struggles people who are both elderly and Christian face. Yet, to my surprise, I as an able bodied 28 year old also resonated with many of the themes in this book. It’s a book that calls its readers to embrace what is truly important in life and be honest about what truly scares us. I struggled with the author’s negative views toward nursing homes and care facilities, but overall thought it was a worthwhile read.

[Ra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wisdom for all regarding one's last years. Since you don't know when they will be, why not read this book now?

[Terri · Rating 4 out of 5]

A simple, direct book about aging and death. It's full of deep truths and engaging testimonies.

[Debbie Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book that explains simply and directly how we can live out our later years of life meaningfully and how we can face the inevitable end with peace.

[Tonya · Rating 3 out of 5]

Why shouldn’t growing older be rewarding?

Johann Christoph Arnold, whose books have helped over a million readers through life’s challenges, wants us to rediscover the spiritual riches that age has to offer.

Now in his seventies, Arnold finds himself personally facing the trials that come with aging. But he knows, from decades of pastoral experience, what older people and their caregivers can do to make the journey more fulfilling.

So what’s the secret of those who continue to love life regardless of their health or circumstances? In Rich in Years, Arnold blends the wisdom from some of the world’s great thinkers with stories of people he has known and admired to show that one doesn’t have to be young to enjoy life, or physically fit to make an invaluable contribution to society.

No pop psychology or self-help manual, Rich in Years tackles tough issues such combatting loneliness, living with dementia, reconciling with family, and making end-of-life decisions.

"On these pages are wonderful words of hope. Savor them." -- Pete Seeger, musician

"Using profound and stimulating stories, Johann Christoph Arnold welcomes us into an elegant fabric of elderly life, abundant with significance and relationships. I know you will find this book spiritually enriching." -- Marva J. Dawn, author

"In this compact yet compelling book, Johann Christoph Arnold brings the reader a wealth of personal stories about growing older -- a time when opportunities flourish for living with purpose..." -- Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York

More offers at http://www.richinyears.com

--My thoughts. "The best way to face death is to really live." Carole Neal. This book has lots of great pearls of wisdom. You might agree with it all but as we get older you really start think about death more, as your loved ones start to age and pass. It is going to happen, it is inevitable. We, as a younger generation, I think don't look to the older generation as we once did. Which is sad. We think we are so smart. There is wisdom in years.

Find your purpose and peace in a long life lived. I received this book for free, in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Peter Holford · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've read a few of JC Arnold's books in the years since I've taken an interest in the Bruderhof communities. There's a community just a couple of hours from here, near Inverell, Australia, called 'Danthonia'. This book was one of two most recently published by their publishing house, Plough Publishing.

As usual, Arnold has a refreshingly straight-forward take on things, and this short book on ageing (and dying) is no exception. He challenges us to think positively about every stage of life, even in the midst of hardship and suffering. Ageing and dying well are important, yet they are not dealt with very effectively in our western youth- and image-obsessed culture. In fact, he challenges the notion that luxury and fun are the meaning of life - suggesting instead that we are created for community.

In this context the author gives us a range of suggestions which will ease the transition through this part of life. For example, 'when we forgive, we become free' (p.19): forgiveness and reconciliation are important elements of finishing well. He also speaks of the redemptive power of suffering, living in the present and putting our lives in God's hands and living on his terms. Appreciating and understanding these things can bring peace and freedom but are the exact opposite of what we're told by our culture: we prefer to avoid suffering, save our lives for ourselves and live on no-one's terms but our own!

I like Arnold's quote from Mother Teresa, saying 'God is the friend of silence' (p.134), focusing on the great value of silence and prayer in order to draw near to God. But just as important is making the most of our lives in the here and now. Even if we have reason to believe that death is a long way away, none of us really knows when this life will end, so we do well to remember that 'What we do in the here and now matters beyond the here and now. We waste so much time in this world with fleeting pleasures, and we forget about the things that really matter' (p.148). Food for thought. Sobering. Wise.

[Meagan Myhren-Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rich in Years
By Johann Christoph Arnold

Finding Peace and Purpose in a Long Life

Often we suffer under the delusion that age will imprison us, causing us to be forgotten just as we forget. But life doesn't need to lose its purpose just because we age.

Life and its length are a blessing from God. And if you doubt this look to the Bible - the child of promise was given to a couple hitting the century mark. But they weren't alone in being up there in age and yet fulfilling God's promises.

We need to remember that the seen is temporary and unseen is eternal, yet we seek to stay time holding onto a youth that cannot be recaptured. Our culture tells us to push back the clock, to deny that we are aging. But aging is a blessing in that we gain wisdom and knowledge that we can share with the younger generations.

The biggest reason aging is feared is because aging is associated with death. We fear losing those around us and fear giving up this life. But we need to realize that there is something more and death is our doorway into another world and it leads us into the presence of our Lord and Saviour Jesus!

Aging is a preparatory step to make us willing to leave this life stage for the next - next stop Eternity. When God calls us to step through the doorway that He is holding open for us we are willing and ready to be made anew.

Rich in Years is a book that will open your eyes to the untruths we have been lead to believe about aging and life in general. This is one book you will want to share!

I was provided a copy of this book through Handlebar Central by the publisher The Plough in exchange for my honest review and my participation in this blog tour event.

[Steven Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up this book intending to quickly leaf through it because I'm not "old". I would say I'm middle-aged and as a result I didn't expect I would find much that would apply to me.

I was quickly engrossed in the book as Arnold, in his characteristic conversational style, soon had lured me in. Arnold shares his wisdom primarily through the characters of his stories. These true accounts are compelling and guide the reader on an enlightening journey through the experiences of others who have crossed Arnold's path.

I was surprised to find that this is not a book just for the elderly. While Arnold's perspective clearly addresses the challenges and blessings of the last stage of our lives, there is wisdom here for all ages. The principles within this book describe the ways in which the final chapters of our lives can be especially rewarding and valuable.

I would recommend this as a book that will interest anyone who wishes to make the most of every day we are given by our Creator. Each day and each stage in our lives has unique opportunities that we can capitalize on so that we will not waste our lives. Arnold uses his unique conversational style of enlighten, encourage and challenge the reader.

My mother was recently widowed after 50 years of marriage. She found the book to be a great encouragement as she enters this difficult stage of life.

[John Jeanneney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rich in Years by Johann Christoph Arnold, The Plough Publishing House

Assessing Rich in Years from the standpoint of an elderly, searching man, I find that most of the book, which deals with the importance of love and mutual support, is valuable and comforting. Arnold explains why adult children should not abandon their parents in a nursing home for their final years. The personal stories, supported by some biblical references, speak to everyone, even those not yet in the Christian Fold.

The last three chapters, 9, 10 and 11, dealing with Death itself are not as effective for a reader like me because they are supported primarily by biblical references. These references have meaning for those who already believe that everything in the Bible is the word of God, but they leave the rest of us unsupported. I have read enough to know that there is "secular" evidence that supports the biblical evidence offered in these last three chapters. For instance there is Proof of Heaven, A Neurosurgeon's Journey into the Afterlife, by Eben Alexander, M.D.

Rich in Years is well worth reading, and it will stimulate further exploration of how we should deal with our own final chapters.


John Jeanneney

[Bill Chadwick · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Rich in Years” is not just another self-help book about growing older. Let’s face it, nobody likes to talk much about death, and the younger among us rarely even think about it…. or try not to anyway! Christoph Arnold’s book is not just about the end of life, and it’s not just for the “older” generation. I found the book to be like a peaceful train ride; less about the destination, and much more about enjoying the ride.

Using his signature style from his earlier works, Arnold unfolds his theme via the narratives of people, encountered along his own path. Allowing these folks to share their personal stories, many times in their own words, provides the reader with a sort of emotional “connection” with them; a sense of both spontaneity and real honesty.

Above all, it’s apparent that Christoph Arnold is a good listener. One gets the feeling he is sitting and rocking, chatting with some interesting friends. The stories are at once interesting, informing and filled with wisdom. You’ve been invited to sit with them all on the front porch. Don’t miss this chance to pull up a chair and join them. I promise you will enjoy your visit.

[Lynnda Ell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Living Well in the Later Years
According to the information in Rich in Years, Finding Peace and Purpose in a Long Life, Johann Cristoph Arnold is “a noted speaker and writer on marriage, parenting, and end-of-life issues.” My reading history has not previously included any books written by Rev. Arnold, but this probably will not be the last book of his I read. His advice on having a meaningful later life is practical, as well as spiritually affirming. I especially like these two quotes: “In idolizing youth, vigor, and bodily health, we become obsessed with increasing life’s length, but God is concerned with deepening life’s meaning.” Also “It is quite obvious when a dying person has used his life in service to others. The peace he has can be seen on his face and felt in the room. But when someone has lived for himself, dying is a palpable struggle, and death an ugly specter.”

My copy of Rich in Years is now heavily striped in orange highlighter. It is a book I will keep in my library and recommend to all my friends. Regardless of your age, I promise you will be encouraged by the truth found in Rich in Years.

I received a free copy for review.

[JT Hine · Rating 4 out of 5]

A powerful book for three important groups of readers: 1) those growing old or facing lifelong infirmity (at any age), who don’t have a solid support structure – or who don’t know if they do; 2) the children and relatives of such people (at any age), whether or not they are the “caretakers”; 3) readers of any age wondering about the inevitability of growing old for themselves or those they care about.
The third group of readers is important, because the habits of love and gratitude that bless the “golden years” rarely spring up overnight. It helps to know where one is headed when making sense of one’s life for the long haul.
Predictably, Pastor Arnold includes a strong, non-denominational Christian message in each chapter and most of Chapter 11. However, for the benefit of those whose may not espouse either Christianity or any religion, he separates that message out from the anecdotes and from the rest of his discussion. He lets the clear examples of the people in his book stand alone to inspire the reader.

[April Yamasaki]

This book is an honest look at some of the challenges of growing older, with chapters like Accepting Changes, Combatting Loneliness, Finding Purpose, Living with Dementia, Finding Peace, Saying Goodbye. Author Johann Christoph Arnold is in his seventies, a pastor and member of the Bruderhof, who shares his own experience and reflections, as well as the stories of Alice, Vince and Jean, Dick, Emmy, and others.

This is not a book of facts and figures about aging or how to deal with finances or other practical matters. Instead, this book takes a larger view: for however many years we are granted on this earth, how do we live with peace and purpose? how can we live a rich life when we are rich in years?

For the rest of my review, please see my blog.

[Ginger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rich in Years, by Johann Christoph Arnold is a good book for those that are up there in years, the generation that might be my parents. Since I am only 29 years old, a'hem, for the 6th year, going on 7th year. I can almost start to relate. While I still have a great many years ahead of me, Lord willing. I have put behind me a lifetime it seems. I have already raised 1 child, who has a grandchild. I have one almost done with his high school career. I have two more that are right behind him. Where does the time go? Rich in Years, is a great book about "finding peace and purpose in a long life".

Rich in Years, reminds us that " Jesus provides an answer to every need, and God knows what is in every heart, even if we don't." I give this book 5/5 stars. I have a greater understanding of how incredible life is.

[Denise DiFalco · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Rich in Years" by Johann Christoph Arnold came to me at the perfect time. It would be my father's 84th birthday which I was grieving over because he had been gone for sixteen years. My tears perpetuated waves of memories of all my loved ones that I have lost while growing older. These 'golden years' have taken much for me to adjust to. The spiritual insight and sensitive writings of this stellar book have helped me take a more positive, productive look on aging. "Rich In Years" addresses the many changes senior citizen's face such as the empty nest syndrome; retirement; unforeseen sickness and how to cope with these difficulties and still find joy and purpose. I am thrilled that I had the wonderful opportunity to review this book for Handlebar in exchange for my thoughts. It was a great blessing~

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is much to inspire the reader of this book, even when the author is writing about death. All of life is an adventure. The later years present special challenges which are described in a compelling manner. I do not even remember how I came upon this book and ordered it, but it showed up at my door courtesy of Amazon, and it turned out to be a wonderful choice. For those who have more of life behind them than in front of them, this book provides meaningful insights as it presents a positive proactive view on getting old and being old. Highly recommended. Note: this book does have a decidedly Christian orientation, but its hopeful message about the challenges of being old are universal.

[Charlie Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many people treat the elderly as a burden, an inconvenience or even as non-productive members of society. In this book, Christoph Arnold, through the use of stories, allows the reader to hear the voices of those who have reached this stage of life. We hear what they want, what they fear and how they wish to be treated. A large part of our society treats the elderly just as we treat our young, by shipping them off so someone else can take care of them. Like so many of Mr. Arnold's books he takes the reader on a journey with this journey ending with death, something we all will face.

This book is not just for the old, it is for everyone. It reminds us all of what is important. Live each day, love one another and serve mankind.

[Beth Withers · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think perhaps I read this book from a different perspective than the intended audience. At 52, I am looking ahead to the next phase of my life, and I was hoping for some encouragement because I find the future looking rather bleak at times. This wasn't the book I needed to read. It really pointed out to me all the problems I will be facing as I grow older, and that wasn't what I was hoping for! If were in my 70s or 80s, however, I would have perhaps found this inspiring. The intention is good, but for me, it fell short.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rich in Years is compilation of many different stories who have found peace and purpose in a Long Life. I knew from the description that I wanted to read it but it was even better than I had hoped. Stories of hope and making the best of each situation. I can't begin to describe all of the useful information this little book contains. I highly recommend it. I won a copy of this book on Goodreads. I was not required to post a review.

[Ed Stubbing · Rating 5 out of 5]

50!!! That’s how many sentences, paragraphs, quotes I bracketed for return visits when inspiration is needed. One from Emmy Arnold, “Each morning when I wake up, I am happy because I have been given another day to love and to serve.” This book is Hope. Hope in the good that each of us can accomplish in this life and Hope in the good that will be done in the next. God bless you, Johann Christoph Arnold. You have made me a better Catholic-Christian.”

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good book for boomers to read. We are entering into our retirement years. Are they to be a time to do what we want or is it a time to give in ways not possible before? Arnold has many thought provoking discussions, such as on the role of doctors and medicine as we grow older. This is a good book for children of aging parents too. Part of aging is dying well and Arnold has some really good teaching on that too. See my full review at http://bit.ly/1hIiKgC.

[Cassandra. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a fast read, but a very Good Read! Life is not so much of how long you live, rather than the kind of life your live. I will keep this book on my nightstand to refer to often. I also recommend this for all of us who have reached a certain age, & to our children & family. Next time I read this I will have my highlighter close by. Thank you, First Reads!