Inevitable

If we are fortunate to live a long life, it is inevitable that tough decisions will have to be made.

Deciding if and when to retire requires some serious deliberation and a crystal ball. Do you take early retirement and forego an increase in Social Security? Do you keep working past your expiration date to maximize your pension? Do you have enough money to live out your days in comfort? Is there ever such a thing as enough?

The decision to retire also begs the question, What will I do with my time if I don’t have a 9-5? For many, our job gives us purpose and meaning. The thought of retiring may require some serious introspection. Who am I without my title? What’s next? It can be really difficult to imagine 24 hours without a schedule. Retirement is a luxury for some and loathsome for others.

Along with the inevitable questions about retirement, there are other life-altering decisions that may be required. Do you stay in your home or downsize? Do you downsize or consider a senior living facility? What about all of your treasures? I’ve read many articles lately that start with, “Your kids don’t want your stuff.”

And then there’s the dreaded issue of relinquishing the car keys. If you’ve ever had that conversation with an aging relative or friend, you know it is rarely pleasant. Is there a certain age when driving should be against the law? Does the inevitable fender bender or mysterious dent constitute losing one’s autonomy and independence? The decision may come down to a risk-benefit analysis that may be unwelcome and ignored.

On Sunday, we learned President Biden would not seek re-election. Talk about the mother of all decisions! That too, was inevitable. Sooner or later, everyone has to leave the White House – some more graciously than others. I’m guessing his loved ones and trusted advisors contributed to the discussion. If you think a conversation about not driving is hard, imagine telling the President of the United States he should retire. Kudos to you, Mr. President. Thank you for your service and for your willingness to give up the keys.