Fall Renewal: We’re Not Going Back (to School)!
September evokes many emotions for retired teachers. Schools once again greet students returning from summer vacation and new students begin their adventure into academic life. For many of us who are newly retired from the classroom, this is a new experience that leaves us thinking, “where do I go from here?”
The “To Hell with the Bell” breakfasts and lunches become our new staff room gatherings and building of post-teaching relationships. Having extra time when we wake up in the morning, without needing to rush to school and prep for class, is perhaps something we always dreamed of and is now a reality. On the other hand, for many of us it can be somewhat of a void in what had been our daily routine for decades.
For those who have the classroom further in the rearview mirror, it might be time to take on the retirement role of grandparent if we have grandchildren. This might involve chauffeuring the grandkids to or from school to help out our working adult children, or attending their sport practices and games to show our support. Perhaps some of us might even be community coaches or volunteers at local schools. Others may volunteer to make lunches for schools in need of meal programs, or filling backpacks at a local organization for children in need (look up Tools for Schools if this interests you).
Calgary Retired Teachers’ Association
“To Hell with the Bells” Lunch
Some of us may be caring for an elderly parent, or finding ourselves ageing and coping with new issues we had not really anticipated when we were younger; new aches, pains, and what appear to be endless medical appointments on our calendar. “Joining the queue” takes on new meaning from standing in line at Costco, a market, or perhaps a concert, to being in the “queue” for a hip or knee replacement. Who would have thought?
As we consider our “academic year” in retirement (heck, I still out of habit purchase an academic desk calendar that runs from September to August of the following year) many of us will have other goals. These might include finally decluttering our lives by getting rid of or donating things we no longer need, or perhaps on a grander scale, downsizing our homes to reflect reality of not requiring a bigger and more costly space. The point is, we are all different, with different needs and goals. What we need now in retirement is to create focus to match our own reality and age. As Kamala Harris has said: “There is no going back.”
This change can be highly positive. We can start a new fitness program (yes, perhaps it was inspired by our physiotherapist rather than the Paris Olympics). Begin a new hobby, or expand an older one such as photography or art now that you have more time to dedicate to your craft. Pick up an instrument and join a band, or simply sing and dance like no one is watching (although, you might want to warn the neighbours before starting). Travel is also something most of us dreamed about throughout our working lives; now we finally have the time to go on those bucket list adventures (or simply get out of the cold in winter for a time).
ARTA Wellness Walk in Calgary
Some of us may want to become more politically active or volunteer in a community or civic association. There are also those wonderful get-togethers we can have with friends to discuss the issues of the world – without having to solve any or worrying if they might fit into the curriculum objectives and outcomes.
Then of course, there is just pure pleasure in having each day, month, and even year to do what we choose to – and truly enjoy our well-earned, school bell-free retirement. First and foremost, it is important to recognize what matters most in our lives, which for many are family and friends.
With retirement and ageing, most of us must also deal with loss and will require a good network of family and friends who can help us navigate that road. Witnessing the recent outpouring of grief over the Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau tragedy and loss for their young families highlights how fragile life really is.
We have an obligation to ensure we pass on the wisdom we have gained from our long lives to the younger generation, just as we did when we were teaching. This does not have to be formal, rather by example and by sharing our stories. It can also be highly fulfilling on a personal level. Again, there is no going back. We move forward by celebrating life while we live it.
Ron Jeffery
Wellness Committee Member