It is inevitable in everyone’s life. Being age related it’s a phase and it can be described as the withdrawal from one’s position, occupation or active working life. Yes, we all have to face retirement in our lives, may be from your employment or profession. The retiring age differs from one country to another, although in India, our official retiring age is 60 for government and public sector undertakings. As one approaches retirement from world life, some would hope to get a few more years whereas some would be happy that their turn has finally arrived. The latter types are generally those who are overburdened or harassed by their higher ups at their place of work. We need to admit that our mental health is bound to deteriorate with age and after putting in a professional life of 40 or more years, a break is always welcome. What more can one hope to achieve?

As we walk into retirement, one should remember that retirement is a life course transition in late adult life, marked by major changes that may affect healthy lifestyles. We need to plan our retirement meaningfully, packed with happiness and self- satisfactory achievements. Once retired, those with no plan, will find themselves feeling unfulfilled and restless trying to do something to fill the void, especially during these dreadful times. Ultimately, happiness is what we are all searching for.

For me, personally, it was time to call it a day, exactly 8 years back when I retired from the Bank service in August 2013. I too had to answer lot of queries like: what will you do in your spare time? Will you take up a part time job? Will you go into business? After putting in nearly four decades of service in the Bank in different capacities, my mind was crystal clear that I had worked enough and it was time to get a well-deserved rest, enjoy quality life with my family. I was pretty sure that I would have enough on my plate to handle in my spare time. Being healthy is vital for a happy retired life and I am extremely grateful to God for keeping me healthy and safe up to now.

Writing and gardening are my main hobbies to keep me occupied. Undoubtedly I have been blessed by God with a happy and contented retired life. I couldn’t have asked for more. I celebrated my birthday on 30th of last month on a low key with a few of my family members and friends present. I am thankful for all the wishes conveyed over phone and social media. A big thank you to Fr. Andrew Pereira, Fr. Leslie Gomes and the editorial Board members for the lovely wishes inserted on the last issue of PORMOLL. I also take this opportunity to wish our editorial board members Mr. Anthony Dias and Mr. Neville Fernandes a very Happy Birthday on 9th and 10th September, respectively. May God bless you all…. until we meet again.

Felix Dias
Editor