From one of the most original and innovative thinkers in medicine,
this "stirring and splendid book" (Wall Street Journal) offers
groundbreaking insight to the postwar generation on facing their second
coming of age, a developmental opportunity to reshape their lives and
our society.
Dr. Thomas is at the forefront of a strong nationwide movement to
reframe "life after adulthood" as an exciting stage of human growth and
development. In Second Wind, he explores the dreams and
disappointments, the struggles and triumphs of a generation of 78
million people who once said they would never grow old and never trust
anyone over thirty. Instilled with the belief that they would always be
Joni Mitchell's "stardust," many Boomers are having a harder time
transitioning into elderhood than previous generations. But the reality
is that every 10.8 seconds an American turns sixty-five. Among all the
human beings who have ever lived to see old age, more than half are
living among us right now. In Second Wind, Dr. Thomas attempts to
guide Boomers into this final developmental stage filled with hope and a
new sense of what is possible.
As the Post War generation entered adulthood, they saw three models of
what an adult could be: hippies, activists, and squares--the "square"
model becoming the dominant model. Now, many Boomers now feel "stuck"
inside the frenzied, performance-based, money-driven world that no
longer suits them. But if they can learn to go slower, go deeper, and be
more connected to themselves, their loved ones, and other members of
their community, they can find the wisdom, happiness, and fulfillment
that comes with a life that is in balance.
