​This month’s session had the group diving deep — not just into politics, but also into ourselves. With Developmental Theory as our backdrop (thank you, Erikson), we acknowledged we’re in the “Integrity vs. Despair” chapter of life. That means we’re in prime position to reflect, share hard-won insights, and — let’s be honest — call things out when we see them.
 
The political systems discussion unfolded in layers. We looked at our role as observers: Do we stay politely on the sidelines, or do we “yell” when needed? There was a fair bit of nodding (and some chuckling) as we considered when we’ve chosen to speak up and when we’ve let things slide — sometimes out of wisdom, sometimes sheer fatigue.
 
A recurring theme was how our lens shapes what we see — and how it might change over time. Many of us acknowledged that lived experience (and a few grey hairs) can either sharpen our views or soften them. The Trump era stirred up lively comparisons — was he a product of a broken system or a master of political theatre? Narcissistic personality or cunning strategist? Opinions varied, as you’d expect, but discussion remained respectful, with a few “well, that depends who you ask” moments that kept things grounded.
 
We also reflected on history — Hitler’s rise, political movements across time — and how these inform our present fears and hopes. Several members contributed fascinating reading suggestions, adding extra layers to our ongoing conversations.
 
All in all, it was a rich, reflective session — part political unpacking, part life review, and full of shared wisdom (with a good splash of humour thrown in).
 
Links recommended by participants:

• Elaine Ingham: American microbiologist and soil biology researcher and founder of Soil Foodweb Inc. She is known as a leader in soil microbiology.
  
• Reasons why people voted for Trump: Bernie Sanders. 
  

Next meeting - 
10:00 am – 11:55am Tuesday 20 May
U3A Room 1 Benalla Senior Citizens Community Centre, Fawckner Drive, Benalla


Jane
0437 621 575

​Again the group was well looked after by Ruby Blue Cafe's Dan and Jodi. Thank you so much.

Aging and reflecting on change dominated our discussion. As usual a diverse range of views created a rich and thought-promoting atmosphere.

We enjoy aging, tend to feel like we are around 28 years old, and look in the mirror and wonder who that person might be. We bemoan the absence of an "elder" status in the culture that we experience, the impact of advertising that prioritises youth and beauty, and outsourcing our care to profit making entities. At national and global levels we reflected on the changing role of women, the stubborn gender pay-gap, and the disastrous consequences of our failure to learn from history.

The purpose of this group includes gaining an understanding of where we are at with reference to a psychological theory. Had he been an observer, developmental theorist Erik Erikson might have explained today's discussion as consistent with his theory about late adulthood - the conflict between "Ego Integrity and Despair". This developmental stage balances both a sense of integrity and fulfillment, as well as a willingness to face death,  with dissatisfaction with life and despair  over the prospect of dying.  Find out more at Structural Learning's 'Eriksen's Developmental Stages' 

IMPORTANT : The date for the April meeting has been changed to Thursday 11 April (at Ruby Blue 2-4pm). Apologies for the inconvenience.


​Jane