What am I looking forward to? Having arrived at the ripe old age of 78 (how did that happen?,) I look forward to continuing my present efforts to live each day deliberately and to make conscious decisions about maintaining my health. I no longer have a career that forces me to work for a boss or have a regular schedule. I was fortunate enough to retire with a good income and enjoy travel with my husband.
A few years ago I started to realize that I had become a compulsive volunteer and had started to resent some of these commitments. So, I found a therapist who helped me learn and use the word, NO. I eased my way out of long term commitments and board positions that I no longer wanted to do. It wasn’t easy for me, but I am much happier to short-term efforts such as helping for a few hours a month preparing meals for the homeless at a local church.
I discovered the joys of Zumba classes and I am able to see a real improvement in my lung capacity and overall strength. A side effect is acquiring a whole new set of friends who enjoy sweating to Latin music.
I walk a few miles everyday, usually listening to programs on National Public Radio.
I’m looking forward to two reunion events, one in Calgary of my husband’s family and another in Connecticut, my 60th high school reunion. I feel fortunate to be able to do these things. These days I spend a lot of time appreciating my involvement in events like this. I’m lucky to be here.
— Oxnard15
A few years ago I started to realize that I had become a compulsive volunteer and had started to resent some of these commitments. So, I found a therapist who helped me learn and use the word, NO. I eased my way out of long term commitments and board positions that I no longer wanted to do. It wasn’t easy for me, but I am much happier to short-term efforts such as helping for a few hours a month preparing meals for the homeless at a local church.
I discovered the joys of Zumba classes and I am able to see a real improvement in my lung capacity and overall strength. A side effect is acquiring a whole new set of friends who enjoy sweating to Latin music.
I walk a few miles everyday, usually listening to programs on National Public Radio.
I’m looking forward to two reunion events, one in Calgary of my husband’s family and another in Connecticut, my 60th high school reunion. I feel fortunate to be able to do these things. These days I spend a lot of time appreciating my involvement in events like this. I’m lucky to be here.
— Oxnard15
Sometimes volunteering is a way to escape other things that some inner voice is calling you to do, but for which the rewards are more subtle (creative things like writing for 40Days). It's true there is something addictive about doing volunteer things constantly and having people be vaguely grateful toward one constantly. Hard to give up, as you say. Have wonderful times in Canada and Connecticut! (Macoff)
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