279: The Gilly Episode - Money, Career, Religion, Faith, Death Re-Thought and the Myth of Retirement

At long last, our first interview! This man has been mentioned many times before on the podcast, and has played a significant role in both our lives...   Michael Gill did have a glittering career, as a lawyer, and in various other engagements, but to us he is cherished more as a source of wisdom, companionship and guidance.   He is a man of vocation and dedication, a source of joy and community to all those he encounters. He listens but tries never to judge.

He thinks deeply, and often throws around words like 'Helicopter!', 'Interconnectedness,' 'Not bloody siloism!', 'Peace and Joy' and of course, 'Just Be.' He's always there for those who need him, and has a sharp and beautiful sense of humour.   

Though he'll say this is no good for his ego, I must say, we consider him to be quite ahead of his time, and he defies almost every stereotype you'd associate with someone of his age and standing in society.  Affectionately dubbed 'Gilly' by those close to him, we wanted to commemorate and capture some of his beautiful insights in an episode.

This is dedicated not just to our dear friend, but to the intimate group of Gilly's companions who cherish him as much as we do.   Here is a man who plants the seeds.    

SUMMARY:  

0:00 Throwback, 'You people waste the now... I don't have that option.' & Intro
7:45 Living in the Now & Anxiety toward the Future
12:30 Struggles living in the 'Present'
16:00 What 'practical' things end up distracting us from life?
20:50 Is it easier for older people to make the most of the present?
25:20 Getting better at appreciating life
30:30 Stepping down from partner at Major Law Firm
40:00 Being between 70 and 80 years of age isn't too bad
43:00 Benefit of admitting what you don't really know in life
45:00 How does your Christian Faith relate to broader awareness?
48:00 The Matthew Perry Story & You can't fool your heart
55:00 Questions about money are always questions about something else
1:02:00 Why do Westerners grow flowers?
1:04:00 No GFC in Cambodia in 2008/9
1:08:27 Gilly's relationship with money
1:12:00 the Gift of not being paid (in money)
1:25:00 What's different about Gilly? (Luke is put on the spot)
1:31:30 Listening to others non-judgmentally
1:39:33 Doubt creates faith
1:41:30 Looking at old beliefs non-judgmentally
1:47:40 Staying on in his old home as a 'widow' & a new understanding of death
1:55:30 How we met Gilly and the journey exploring education
2:02:30 Relflecting on the beginning of Constant Student
2:07:10 Just. Be.
2:11:27 Deep Rest.
2:13:10 'Too busy living it!'