Brooks says that spiritual longing begins in middle age for many people. Often those who are skeptical in young adulthood find themselves more open to faith and spirituality as they age. In part this is due to life experience: As people learn that life is not neat and tidy, but ambiguous and mysterious, they accept ambiguity in religion as well. What may not have made sense about faith in their younger years now becomes a basis for grappling with questions instead of looking for answers. Research points to not only more satisfaction but better physical health for people who identify as religious or spiritual. This may be due to the benefits of increased socialization, but Brooks suspects the focus outside the self might also come into play.

Brooks recounts a trip he took in 2018 to India, a country he has long been interested in. He had heard about a philosophy regarding the stages of life that Indians call the ashramas, but he could not find out much information. The best way to learn more was to travel to India in person and meet with a teacher, which he did.

The teacher told him there were four stages to life, beginning with the early years of learning.