The Spiritual Aspects of the Twelve Senses and Virtues to Cultivate as One Ages

These are the virtues one can cultivate regarding each of the Twelve Senses that Rudolf Steiner discussed. One can cultivate these before old age so that the challenges of aging are met gracefully and create a positivity around one that attracts a healthy environment and relationships.

Sight- Look inward, focus on inner vision of wisdom and justice of events of destiny, especially so called failures, reversals, misfortunes and accept as needed. Be grateful for all lessons learned, peacefully and without regret. Recognize destiny as a friend.

Hearing-Listen with soul, silently, selflessly with full attention and without criticism. Hear what’s being said behind the words, through nonverbal communication. Hear what things of nature and the world are saying. Children often cannot convey what they mean through the words.

Smell-Never turn up your nose or shun others. Instead smell with compassion and love. Sense the true essence of the other one, of their I Am.

Taste- Indulge not in insult but develop courtesy. Avoid criticism and judgment.

Touch- Overcome egotistic curiosity of touching for inquisitiveness, rather touch things and people with reverence. Play instruments and develop skill with handicrafts.

Warmth- Cultivate patience, great warmth of heart, an ardent soul and fiery spirit.

Balance- Focus on inner tranquility and equilibrium.

Sense of Life- Evenness of temper and service to others.

Speech- Sense divine power of the word and be courageous.

Thought- Avoid excessive talkativeness, be silent within and contemplative. Assimilate new ideas.

Sense of Ego of Others- Go beyond appearances/maya. Sense the divine Ego, I Am of the other. Consider the interest of the other as much as your own.

If age becomes a burden strive to be a light filled soul which aims to be a blessing, not a burden.

These thoughts come from the study of Citizens of the Cosmos by Beredene Jocelyn and The Fulfillment of Old Age by Norbert Glas, M.D.