I feel fortunate, too. I retired early to help with my folks. Would do it again. I was blessed with wonderful parents. Given what is transpiring in the field of education, I would have had to resign my position because I would not have introduced the evil state-mandated curriculum to the school districts in the area counties. Teaching is my passion and I had to say no to subbing this year because I’m not a mask wearer and I refuse to be part of teaching a curriculum that is against my religious convictions.
Yes, you’re fortunate too. .....As I look back I truly think the Lord was guiding that decision. I read an article explaining how the math adds up better when you retire early rather than hold off until retirement age. ...even though the SS people promote otherwise. You can still work part-time and then later even work full time...and that exceeds greatly what you stand to gain by waiting.
I also retired early because I wanted to live my later years in charge of my daily life. I have loved every minute of it. I did work part-time for awhile after....and it was great knowing I wasn’t dependent on that work....I could leave any time. So eventually I did.
I cannot say enough about early retirement that’s favorable.