[I am reminded of a remark by someone (perhaps George Burns) to the effect that “if I had known I was going to live this long, I would have taken better care of myself,” but I digress - and not for the first time, I hear you cry.]
Bill goes on to say that when he attended the first annual general meeting of the SLC Retirees Association in May 2005 (as a guest, not yet retired), he invited attendees to write something that might be helpful to those considering retirement. Their responses, in the order received, are outlined below – along with an entirely frivolous piece from yours truly about “Great Truths We Learn Over Our Lifetime.” Please post below your tips for retirees.
“Develop a hobby or other creative interest prior to retirement, so that you have another community in place to replace the college community.”
“Don’t owe any money when you retire. Do your travelling early.”
“Take time after you retire before committing to retirement activities. This allows one to choose those activities you particularly enjoy.”
“Retire early enough to still have the stamina to do the stuff you want to accomplish.”
“Don’t move into a small space with your partner, pets, etc., while building your retirement home! 24/7 in a 24’x24’ can be challenging.”
“To everything there really is a season!”
“Plan ahead.”
“Use every opportunity to stay in touch with friends.” [This, to me, is a key point.]
Great Truths We Learn Over Our Lifetime
#1. Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional.
#2. Forget the health food; I need all the preservatives I can get.
#3. When you fall down, you wonder what else you can do while you’re down there.
#4. It’s frustrating when you know all the answers but nobody bothers to ask you the questions.
#5. Time may be a great healer, but it’s a lousy beautician.
#6. Wisdom comes with age – but sometimes age comes alone.