The Book:
A Year to Live: How to Live This Year as If It Were Your Last
This book is a heartfelt invitation to people of all ages, at any stage of life. It details a profound experiment in which Stephen Levine spent an entire year living as though he had only 12 months left to live, offering readers a roadmap to awaken to the present moment.
The core philosophy of the text is to treat "preparing for death" not as a morbid act of fear, but as the ultimate catalyst for living. By actively confronting mortality, readers are encouraged to drop superficial worries, reconcile past regrets, and deeply appreciate the miracle of being alive.
“To heal is to touch with love that which was previously touched by fear.”
- Stephen Levine
The Author:
Stephen Levine (1936-2016) was a prominent American poet, author, and meditation teacher. A central figure in consciousness movement, he pioneered the integration of Theravada Buddhist teachings and devotional yoga in the West, alongside colleagues like Ram Dass.
Program Outline and Dates:
August 5th - Orientation and first meet-up
September 2nd - Meeting yourself with the prognosis
October 7th - Confronting the fear of death and dying
November 4th - Softening to fear
December 2nd - Experientials in the practice of dying
January 6th - Watching the movie of our life as a deep reflection of peace
February 3rd - The creation of an altar
March 3rd - What is consciousness? What dies?
April 7th - What happens after death?
May 5th - The process of the body after
June 2nd - Writing a will and legacy project
July 7th - We are connected
August 4th - Saying good-bye
Engaging in the content of this book club may be uncomfortable, difficult, and/or challenging at times. This is a year-long practice in forgiveness, gratitude and letting go. Please commit to the creation of meditation, self-care, and intentional space to process the depth of this journey.
Teaching Team:
Time and Location:
The first Wednesday of every month at:
Inner Serenity Center from 6:30pm - 8:30pm
650 Maitland Ave. Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
Details:
6:30-7:30pm is time to socialize, connect, or catch up on some reading
7:30-8:30pm group guided meditations, experientials, group inquiry and discussions
This is cohort based and a year long participation commitment is held for this container. If you cannot commit to a year, please wait for our next book and join us at our other events. Please acquire the book on your own.
Gongfu style tea will be available, bring a snack or drink to share if desired.