Hurrah for retirement. Or should I say boo? Will the pros outweigh the cons?
I’ll have more time to write my blogs, articles, and finish a sequel to my novel. Three other storylines are floating inside my head and heart. I’ll enjoy seeing them on paper.
Bible studies grace my bookshelves. Is there a better way to spend my time than focusing on God’s Word and growing closer to Him?
Travel with my husband will be fun. We have several trips planned. California, South Dakota, Georgia, Texas, and Tennessee. Always, Tennessee. That’s where our grandchildren live.
To sleep in sounds splendid. Not sure how long it will take my body to sleep past 5:30 a.m., but I’ll try.
A cleaner house and better meals? Doubt that. With my nose in a book or fingers on the keyboard, I’ll be too busy for those mundane tasks.
I’ll miss the people where I work. Nine years we’ve been together. My youngest daughter met several of my coworkers and spent time with them. She said, “Mom. You work with the nicest people.” They are a good group.
Losing income may hurt my ego. In the short term, I might think I’m not contributing enough—not adding value to the household. I guess there are always those dull chores. Yikes!
Ways I plan to tackle changes in my new way of life include preparing a schedule and keeping a to-do list. Yes, I’ll add the dreaded housecleaning and throw in exercise. I must discipline myself to stay active.
I hope to continue my Bible study at work, mentor a young woman, attend Toastmasters, and meet friends for lunch as part of my routine. If I need more, pottery or photography classes and volunteer work are options.
After thirty-eight years of employment, retirement may either excite or distress me. If emotions, doubt, or uneasiness try to get the best of me, I will focus on what the verse below says.
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7 NLT).
If you’re retired, what has been your experience?
