# Chapter 174

We had a lively discussion last night with friends about retirement. There was no consensus. Those who are physically weary and struggling were generally much more in favor of retirement as a goal, state of being, whatever, and were resentful of those at the table who were taking responsibility for their health, were energetic and who were having fun still working with no plans of stopping. Then there were those in the middle who would like to have less responsibilities and more leisure and more down time, and they seem to be calling this “retirement” in their explanations.

First of all there is no requirement to retire. In fact it is an entirely Western idea that many other cultures don’t share. There is no expectation of retirement in many parts of the world. None. I have heard my dad tell stories of his grandparents who lived with them when he was a boy, and they contributed to the success of the family and the family economics until they physically were not able any longer. Which was not a leisurely exit. Basically they worked right up until they died.

On the other hand, we all will stop at some point. This is non-negotiable. We all come to the end of our capacity and resources and we need other’s help, until our end comes. I don’t know if this is retirement or not, but we don’t generally keep working until our last breaths. So the take away is this - plan your end carefully, but keep a loose grip on it because no one can anticipate all that is going to happen when.