August Meeting

Discussion

Amy:

See, I really did choose this book because I'm feeling middle-aged, ladies. Let's just put that out there right now! I just needed someone to say, "You go, girl" despite the upcoming 40th birthday. (Y'all know what I'm talking about?)

Okay, so were you able to get a copy of Two Old Women and read it during this busy month of July?! I like this book. I like its simplicity, its story, its message.

I feel the women's anger as they are betrayed by the group. I love their courage as they declare that "if we are going to die, my friend, let us die trying, not sitting." But I also love their forgiveness. I love that their motivation for survival was not necessarily to dis' The People who left them, but to prove they could overcome weakness. Something they would not have learned had they not gone through the trial -- though it was incredibly painful emotionally and physically. I like this quote on p. 128 that speaks of the women's relationship with The People after they had both survived and reunited:
"Both learned that from hardship, a side of people emerged that they had not known. The People had throught themselves to be strong, yet they had been weak. And the two old ones whom they thought to be the most helpless and useless had proven themselves to be strong." And then it talks about how The People found themselves seeking the company of the women for advice and to learn new things. I'm thinking I can learn so much from my elders, and am I taking advantage of the opportunity?

I also like the setting of nature, and its beauty despite the harshness. After the two women are left by the group, and are feeling the desperation of the situation, they awaken the next morning with frost on their caribou skins and Ch'idzigyaak (Anyone want to take a stab at the pronunciation?!) sighs in "dull exasperation," and then "she went outside where the northern lights still danced above, and the stars winked in great numbers. Ch'idzigyaak stood for a moment staring up at these wonders. In all her years, the night sky never failed to fill her with awe." It reminds me of the beauty, the direction, the God gives us, even during uncertain times. And it reminds me of all the times I've needed to feel the Spirit in my life, and was directed while getting outdoors and in the open air.

This quote isn't in the book, but I think it applies to the discussion of it:
"There is nothing sadder than an unfulfilled life. Someone who is well past the halfway point of life, convinced that they missed out on their true calling. Dreams don't come with expiration dates. Take advantage of the years that lie ahead of you and do what you were created to do, whatever that happens to be. Whether it is in education, politics, science, medicine, arts, or any other field, the world needs what you still have to offer." ~ Martha Bolton

Your thoughts?

Micah:

YOU GO GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!! (that's for Amy who I'm certain isn't going to turn 40 this year because that then means that I'm turning 40 as well. YIKES!!!)

I sadly have to admit that between girls camp and dating I haven't read the book. Can I still be part of the group though? I'm promise to do better this month. :)

Amy, I LOVED the quote at the end. That's something that I need to commit to memory so thanks for sharing. I actually tend to look towards the future but there are definitely times where I wonder "what if". I guess the "what ifs" are going to take place in the future. I have a lot to look forward to!!! :)

And speaking of things to look forward to...I got a ticket to fly to Boise for the annual 5k. Anyone else going to join in the fun?
Karen:

I can't help but pat myself on the back since I finally finished a book club book! It helped that it was a shorter one, but also, I loved it!

I was in awe of these two little women (I called them Chickadee and Star); the same way I am when I hear stories of the early saints crossing the plains and wonder if I have it in me to endure something like that. I tend to think not but then I read my favorite quote from the book that came from the introduction:

"...there is no limit to one's ability--certainly not age--to accomplish in life what one must. Within each individual on this large and complicated world there lives an astounding potential of greatness. Yet it is rare that these hidden gifts are brought to life unless by the chance of fate".

I wonder quite often what I am really capable of if I really put my mind to something and my priorities in line.

I also liked Amy's point about learning from our elders. When I was a hostess at the Conference Center (Micah and Lisa might relate) I loved getting to know all the senior couples and hearing their stories and getting their points of view on life, dating, marriage, pretty much anything.

Great pick Amy! I'm not sure if someone was chosen for this months’ book? Any volunteers?

Ann:

I LOVED the book. Of course as always I'm intrigued about how people can live off the land at any age. I thought it was interesting that when life had gotten easier for them when The People took care of them they became grouchy and complaining. I think work and the rewards we reap from honest labor can help us a little in the humility and gratitude department. Also, I think the quality of life for the two women was higher when they had to use their skills and minds.

Here's a random thought but maybe I can get it to tie in somehow: yesterday I was driving along and in front of me was this older couple (probably late 60s) out on their motorcycle. The guy looked like an old biker dude and his companion looked like an old biker gal. They were both on the same bike, no helmets, dressed like they probably dressed in their 20s, and out for a joy ride. As I watched them I thought good for them, I'm glad they still get out and follow their interests. I hope to do all of my favorite things for my entire life (or as long as I'm able to) and don't just give up and sit at home because I'm old.

Bring it on 40, I'm still healthy and ready for a good hike!


Lisa:

Yes! I also read the book. When I picked it up from the library I realized I had actually read it before. But it was short and good so I read it again. I also liked the messages referred to by Amy (With quotes and all, very nice, Amy;) And I also am turning 40 this year.

Business

August Book: Left to Tell, by Immaculée Ilibagiza
Chosen By: Lisa Weaver