Baby boomers' insatiable quest for spiritual meaning is a well-known phenomenon, so Yount, author of eight previous books (including The Future of Christian Faith in America
), is wise to craft a book aimed at this audience, a group that swells every eight seconds as another American reaches the age of 50. This volume, a sequel to his Spiritual Simplicity
, strives to teach readers how to become "theological—to see ourselves from our designer's perspective." Using the framework of traditional marriage vows (for better or worse; for richer, for poorer, etc.), Yount dispenses practical guidance and uplifting encouragement with a slight Christian flavor that doesn't alienate nonbelievers. He advocates a proactive stance, and his work is full of admonitions that boil down to doing something constructive in the golden years. This means expanding one's approach to being alive, especially when circumstances such as health, finances and solitude threaten to diminish one's quality of life prematurely. Touching on such realities as financial planning, diet, sleep and even funeral shopping, this volume will prove to be a gentle companion for those daunted by the inescapable changes that occur in later life. Yount's style is easy to follow, and this work's ample anecdotes and quotes make it a swift, accessible read for all who seek light at the dimming of the day. (Mar.)
