
Welcome to Falling Up After 50, a blog dedicated to building a more meaningful second half of life, one day at a time.
After a successful career as a Software Engineer, Development Manager, and Program Manager, I realized I wanted something more from life and retired shortly after turning 50.
Faced with a new abundance of time to explore what matters most, my priority was to explore a part of life I had neglected for decades – my spirituality. I wanted a real relationship with God that would sustain me through the inevitable hard times and help me be joyful during the ordinary times that I often take for granted.
Still relying on an analytical approach to everything, I became a student again and earned my Master’s degree in Theological Studies from the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry. After getting an excellent education but feeling there was so much still to learn, I’ve realized that knowing God through an academic approach alone is impossible. So now I’m trying to put all the pieces together using my head and heart to integrate that theoretical knowledge with my lived experience.
The title of my blog is inspired by Father Richard Rohr’s book Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life. I read this shortly after retiring, and it has been a key influence on my journey.
My posts reflect on my journey through the second half of life. I’m learning that what once worked well for me may no longer serve me, so it’s an ongoing challenge to change some of the habits and mindsets that once made me happy. For inspiration, I primarily rely on the Christian tradition. However, I also incorporate insight from other spiritual masters and contemporary writers who I believe have a helpful perspective.
I hope these reflections are useful for you as you navigate your journey.