I will take SS when I want to. It is a benefit I paid for and paid for handsomely having “contributed” the limit from the time I was 16. When I do take it I will spend every penny of it on anything I don’t need for as long as I can get it.
Every day I am more happy that I retired when I did just about a year ago now. I turned 62 this week and will wait a bit to file for SS since I am easing into retirement. The transition is not yet complete and I treat my current time as a long vacation having done a little work this last year and I may do more still if the opportunity contines. Being able to go back is different when you are self-employed I suppose. Filing for SS is a milestone I am not ready for. All things in due time. My Dad was forced out at 67 and would have worked until he was 70. He died at 76-1/2. They got a great deal on his pension. He seemed in a rush to get enjoyment done though he and Mom both loved what they did at one time it got harder.
I sat with my 90 year-old Mom today. She lives in the very near present and the very distant past. Mostly the latter in a fog of confusion. She can’t move around much or do for herself much. The days I can get up, endure the cold or heat, take care of the stock, work out doors and just goof off with my wife are numbered. I wake each morning asking God to help me not screw up and grateful for another new beginning.
“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
I too was somewhat forced out of my life’s profession but now happy for it. I needed a push. My days are filled now with getting to do things I really enjoy doing and looked forward to for a long time and getting to do them right. If they never get done... so what? I will have enjoyed the journey.
That was beautiful.
Dear Sequoyah101,
An attitude like that is priceless! Happy New Year!
Regards,