Developmental psychologist Erik Erikson referred to the eighth stage of human development from ages 65 to death as, “Integrity versus Despair.” As we reflect on our lives, integrity comes from owning our gifts, talents, and impact on the world, knowing we have made a difference, touching lives in our unique way. Unacknowledged acts of kindness and compassion, big and small, questioning our influence here, can leave us in despair. Through group discussion, dyads, and writing prompts, we will gather up our purpose and know our goodness. We will identify interludes, people, and actions taken that held more significance than we realized. This will reveal a legacy that we can share with our loved ones and embrace as our own personal contribution to the planet, a cherished gift to ourselves and others. Students will need to bring writing materials, a pen, journal, and/or paper.

Di Ucci, MA Ed., RN, Master Certified Life Coach has spent over four decades assisting people through challenging life transitions as an educator, mediator, trainer, nurse, and life coach. She has taught in Elder Hostel, and given interactive presentations on legacy at Senior Solutions, Walhalla Library, Keowee Place Assisted Living, and the Senior Gathering in Seneca. Di was Director of Nursing in a North Carolina Retirement Community and has facilitated numerous discussions on aging issues throughout her beloved human services career. She is also a writer and published her novel in 2019.