More Readers Respond
So, dear readers, let me set the record straight – right
here and now: Yes, I am thinking about retiring. But not tomorrow. Not next
week. Not even next month. Just… eventually. Someday. In the distant land of “the Future.”
You’d be surprised at how many people
have asked me if I’m retiring since I first wrote an article in the Where What When two months ago. They ask
at weddings, in 7-Mile Market, even in the school hallway – always with the
same wide-eyed
question: “Are you really retiring?”
Well, of course I am. Eventually. I
mean, doesn’t everyone retire at some point? That brings me to the purpose of this column: to
explore what you all think about
retirement. I’m especially interested in hearing from those still in the
“thinking about it,” “wondering if I should,” or “silently panicking” phase.
Just this past Shabbos, I was sitting
outside with my beloved Shabbos Afternoon Shmooze Group, where we sit and try
to solve the world’s problems between Mincha and shalosh seudos. And the topic came up. All four of us still work.
All four of us still claim to “like” our jobs. And – most importantly – none of
us has been gently nudged toward the exit.
There’s an eight-year age gap among us,
yet we share a deep sense of friendship, commonality, and all feel pretty vital
and purposeful in our professions. Are we slightly delusional? Maybe. But you’d
have to ask our coworkers – assuming they’re not secretly pondering the same
questions!
My friend Judy put it best: “I’m
working till I drop!” We all just nodded in silent agreement, checking our
watches to see if it was time to head home and set up shalosh seudos.
So, in the spirit of research (and procrastination), I
continue with this column. I have three interesting letters to share with you,
again, from people who are happily retired.
* * *
Let’s
start with Robert, who wrote:
Dear Rochelle,
I suggest that people look into
substitute teaching. There are local schools that need this.
I am a substitute teacher at Berman School in Rockville, grades three to eight.
The school appreciates it, and the students are very nice. I am 76 years young,
and my schedule is pretty full.
Robert from
Rockville
Robert, first of all, “76 years young” might be the best line I’ve read
all week. Secondly, I love that you’re still in the classroom,
helping out, staying active, and clearly making a difference.
* * *
Shaindy Feldman, activity director at Aventura at the Heights
Assisted Living (originally Tudor Heights), writes, “Your piece resonated
deeply with me, especially regarding the need for continued engagement and
connection. Our residents truly cherish interaction and learning, and we’re are
always looking for volunteers of individuals or groups who might be interested
in any kind of activities!” Shaindy suggests:
·
Visiting with residents: Simple
conversations can make a world of difference.
·
Leading a learning program: Perhaps
a weekly or monthly session on a topic you're passionate about.
·
Lead us in chair exercises: A
fun and social way to stay active together one morning a week.
Some other ideas she mentions are arts and crafts, musical
performances, gardening, and more!
“Our residents are vibrant individuals with rich life experiences,
and they shouldn’t be forgotten. We believe that intergenerational connections
enrich everyone’s life, and we’re eager to open our doors wider.”
Shaindy says, “If you or someone you know is looking for a
meaningful way to contribute, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me, at 410-999-8116
or sfeldman@aventurahg.com.
Let’s work together to ensure our seniors remain a
cherished and active part of our community.”
*
* *
And then there’s Shelly, who opened her
letter by admitting she doesn’t usually give suggestions but made an exception
for me. (Thank you, Shelly!)
She’s been retired for a year and a half – and definitely not bored. Her
schedule includes walking three times a week (outside or in the mall),
learning, volunteering, babysitting, crafting, sightseeing, gardening, reading,
cooking, and even tackling those long-avoided chores – bit by bit, of course.
Here’s just a snippet of her wisdom:
“I needlepoint tefillin bags and challah
covers for my grandchildren’s bar/bat mitzvahs.... I try to be on the computer
for less than an hour a day (including email!), and I do not sit in front of
the TV. Lunch with friends is a regular part of the week.”
If that’s what retirement looks like, honestly, sign me up! (Well, not yet,
but eventually.) So please, keep the suggestions coming. Whether you’re
retired, semi-retired, or just in the research-and-panic stage, like me, I’d
love to hear what fills your days – or what you hope will one day fill them.
Until then, I’ll consult my Shabbos Afternoon
Shmooz Group for more chizuk, more
laughs, and maybe a new recipe to share.
Please send your ideas, questions, and stories to retirednowwhat58@gmail.com.
