In this third chapter of the series on body and grace, we will explore the concept of history, not from a general historical perspective or from personal history, but from a more intermediate view: the spiritual history of each individual. Time, as we mentioned in the previous chapter, is the measure of movement, but we can distinguish different types of time.
First, there is cosmological time, which refers to the time of inanimate things. The Earth, the universe, stalactites, and mountains have their own time, governed by physical-chemical and mechanical phenomena.
Secondly, biological time refers to the life cycle of plants and animals, where a more complex dynamism already exists. Living beings go through stages of growth, maturity, and decay, and their lives are marked by a pattern of beginning, maturity, old age and death.
However, biographical time is exclusive to human beings. It is free time, where freedom plays a crucial role. Unlike animals, which do not have a history in the full sense, humans have a biographical history that they build through their decisions and actions.
Free time is our autobiography in the making. Death, which inevitably affects us all, can be seen in two ways: as an unexpected interruption, similar to the frustration we feel when the light goes out while watching a football match, or as a natural and expected culmination, like the end of a film we were waiting for to end.
Today we celebrate the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, an example of how death can be seen as the fulfillment and perfection of a life. Mary, according to most theologians, died and was assumed into heaven, showing that life can end as a culmination of what has been accomplished.
It is not always necessary to go through all the stages of life in a prototypical way to have a fulfilled life. The different stages of life are processes of maturation that can occur at different times and in different ways. The important thing is to live well and mature at each stage.
In spiritual time, we can identify several significant stages:
- Unfolding: The first 15 years, where the child is in a phase of automatic growth, learning and developing rapidly.
- Adolescence: This period is marked by the crisis of freedom and identity. Teenagers discover their ability to think and act for themselves, which can lead to a phase of rebellion and search for identity.
- Youth: Between the ages of 15 and 25, it is about discovering the ideals and goals of life. It is a stage of great energy and idealism, where young people search for their purpose and direction.
- Maturity: From the age of 25 to 45, it is a stage of experience and responsibility. Individuals face the challenges of real life and must learn to balance their ideals with reality.
- Seriousness: Between the ages of 45 and 55, one may experience a sense of stagnation and repetitiveness, known as the midlife crisis. However, it is also a time to accomplish one’s best works and take on important responsibilities.
- Wisdom: From the ages of 55 to 75, one senses the acceleration of time. This stage is marked by a greater understanding of life and the ability to transmit wisdom and perspective to others.
- Old age: The final stage, where life forces decline and one may become dependent on others. It is a time to cultivate the virtue of acceptance and preparation for the end of life, maintaining a positive and loving attitude toward others.
Each stage of life has its own challenge and opportunity for spiritual growth. Life is a continuous journey of maturation and development, and each day is an opportunity to fulfill our mission and live fully.
