I had an uncle who once said “retirement is the most demanding job of my life.” He was very giving of his time to organizations in need of volunteer help. I think I now understand.
It has been
only two weeks since I “retired,” giving up my job managing the local radio
station. Honestly, I don’t miss it. The demands were great…..but I’m coming to
realize…..retirement can be even more demanding.
With the
announcement of my departure from the station, it gave Carol free reign to
throw a list of assignments my way. She likes to throw around the word “unemployed”
when referencing me. I resemble that remark.
I’ve found
it a blessing to not be handy. Can’t use tools, can’t build anything and
my ability to repair things is highly suspect. I have skills…just not the kind
needed for our 100+ year-old home. Carol comes from a family of skilled
craftsmen, so that gets me off the hook most times.
The church
and worthy community organizations have come calling for my time and I have
given it freely and enjoyed it. Come to think of it, I haven’t had time to even
take an afternoon nap since I quit my job at the radio station.
Abe Lemons
once said: “The trouble with retirement is you never get a day off.”
With
deference to Lemons, I am finding a day next week to go hunting. I will travel
to see my children….and I will continue to be highly visible in the community.
…and
retirement from broadcasting is like retirement from my career in education.
The end of
something means the beginning of something else.
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