Addressing three issues, I deal with in my retirement years.
First off, I look at my life as a book of having many chapters. When I finish one chapter of a book, I do not throw the book away, no, I turn the page revealing a new episode. So it is in life. Previous chapters record my history. A new chapter opens for me to experience. My life book purposely omits an index, and yours also does. I can address my past and current life’s successes and failures but it is not possible to index future events which will complete my life’s book.
Here are 3, of the many, issues I’m addressing in retirement.
Number one: Reality!
Am I secure in my present state? Do I have an ongoing internal discussion with myself as to a personal truth? When I survey my Christian faith, is it vibrant? Is my physical body in the best of health? Am I satisfied with the state of my relationships, with my spouse, my children, my siblings and my friends? If I do not face my reality, it will slam me in my face someday.
John Townsend, in his book, ‘Leadership Beyond Reason,’ makes this statement:
“Reality happens, and it always wins.”
Consider this;
Face reality as it is, not as you, [I], wish it to be.” Peter Koestenbaum
Number two: Recognition!
I’m not talking about me gaining recognition.
Am I living with a sense of unending gratitude for what I have and for those who have poured into my life?
Does my behavior exhibit a genuine sense of gratitude?
Do I work on being a kind person?
I want to recognize the successes of others and grieve with their losses equally.
“The more you express gratitude for what you have the more you will have to express gratitude for.“ – Zig Ziglar
Number three: Respect!
Am I worthy of the respect given me?
Lately, what have I done that is deserving of respect?
Do I willingly offer verbal admiration to family members and friends for their achievements?
I’m sure I can give more ‘pats on the back’ for jobs well done.
The light in my soul shines brightest when I’m fully engaged in the present.
When I take the time to consider these three, then my steps are made secure.
- reality
- recognition
- respect
Do you need more wisdom for your journey into and through retirement? Remembering these scriptures will help.
If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. (James 1:5 NLT)
He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. (Proverbs 2:7 NLT)
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