We Baby Boomers grew up with the assumption that we were too smart to make the mistakes our parent's generation had. Our jobs were going to those we enjoyed. Our relationships would be loving ones and when they ran into trouble we were open enough to consult with a therapist. We would sock away enough money, without getting weird as our Great Depression parents had, for retiring in an interesting way.
Of course, being smart didn't count for much when life intervened. I changed careers several times and only now am very satisfied with my choice. I never married and my intimate relationships have been rocky, despite therapy. And all that money I put away, without crimping my lifestyle, has vanished.
In his AP article, John Rogers confirms that we are going to be working until we drop. At first that was a shock. Then as we got the hang of getting and keeping work, no matter what including ageism, we considered being able to work a blessing. Not everyone can pull it off.
Here in the senior citizen complex Bella Vista, New Haven, Connecticut, those of us who continue to work have a spring to our step and a direction for our lives. Since money keeps coming in we don't whine about the end of the month when a Social Security or annuity check runs out. We have plans. Mine include relocating to Ecuador or Spain when telecommunications improve enough for me to run my communications boutique there. The lower cost of living will permit me to not have to work quite as hard as I am now. Also, it's a new start. I can move on to making new mistakes.
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