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:

October 7th - Orientation and first meet-up

November 4th - Meeting yourself with the prognosis

December 2nd - Confronting the fear of death and dying

January 6th - Softening to fear

February 3rd - Experientials in the practice of dying

March 3rd - Watching the movie of our life as a deep reflection of peace

April 7th - The creation of an altar

May 5th - What is consciousness? What dies?

June 2nd - What happens after death?

July 7th - The process of the body after

August 4th - Writing a will and legacy project

September 1st - We are connected

October 6th - 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:

Shay DeGrandis, Pamela Goldsmith, & Bri Tampa

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:

6:30-7pm socialize, connect, or catch up on some reading

7-8:30pm 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.