Today was the last time to leave my office, turn off the lights and lock the door. It’s a bit scary to think about this being the last day I’ll receive a regular paycheck. Men are most always concerned with providing for the family.
It didn’t take long to get over the scary part – especially since we’ve been planning for this day a looooong time! It is actually hard to contain the large smile on my face. It’s true, I will miss the many friends I’ve made. However, the thought of “freedom” quickly dominates my thoughts, and defining a new chapter of life with my very best friend, Mary Lyn, is extremely motivating. We’ve been married 42 years, and she is at the top of my mind. We have lots of plans, and, by the Grace of God we will have a long life together to fulfill them.
You know, we don’t get to retirement by ourselves. There are lots of people who helped me get to this point in life, and I’m truly thankful. I believe in the team! The support and encouragement from my main team – my family – has meant more than anything. I’m very blessed. The ultimate team member is my wife, Mary Lyn. Through the years, she has agreed to follow me wherever I felt there was a new challenge and opportunity for our family. She truly is the best.
Planning to retire has financial considerations and we asked on many occasions, “how much is enough?” That’s a legitimate question that can’t be answered without planning. Mary Lyn and I also know our days are numbered – as they are for everyone! None of us know when we will take our last breathe, because as a creation of God, he is in control. Our decision with “today is the day”, is to go out while our health is still good and we can enjoy the freedom.
The question I hear from men I’ve talked to is “what will I do with my time?” For me, the answer is not totally clear yet, but that’s okay. Our first long journey will give time to slow down, learn to relax, read, and contemplate what comes next. It may be we decide to travel until we can’t move anymore! But I trust God will help me see what my next move should be.
As we’ve shared our decision and travel plans with other couples, the men almost always respond with enthusiasm and envy. The women have questioned Mary Lyn’s ability to put up with me daily, especially in the close quarters of our fifth wheel, The SouthernAire. My advice for men is to “be smart” and “listen” to the concerns. In our case, make sure that hair dryer works everyday for about 15 minutes. The lesson: there are always a few essentials that must be met to make this thing a success!
Our traveling names are Trip and Daisy – you have to have names, right! Trip is always up for going somewhere, and Daisy is like sunshine in my life everyday. Let the venture begin.
I’m retired, and it feels good!
