Being Different
Watch this postI have been an air hostess for 48 years and I will be retiring in 2 months...and not by choice!
My company has offered a “one time” phenomenal severance package that cannot be turned down. I’m 68 yrs old and I’m not like most people my age.
Working, especially in my job, has kept me active, fit and mentally stimulated. I look half my age. The downside to this good fortune is that other women my age do not want to be friends with me. The wives of my husband’s friends and our older neighbors do not call me back or include me in any plans. We have a big party every year and invite them all to our house. Everyone has a great time but it never results in reciprocal invitations. Their conversations seem to focus on aches and pains, who died, medications and housework. I focus on their issues and problems with empathy as I do want to know them better and I want their friendship. I NEVER talk about my time spent in exotic locations around the world for obvious reasons. These one-way friendships will be felt more intensely after I retire. I cannot wallow in self pity as I have so much to be thankful for.
My husband is 70 and we have a loving relationship, my children and grandchildren are all happy and healthy. Although I want to have friends, coffee and conversations .... I am also very much an introvert and this is reflected in my favorite things to do. We have 25 acres of land... pastures, woods, rolling hills, ponds and many wild animals are residents of this sanctuary. We no longer have horses and farm animals - all were beloved pets. I love working in the woods clearing brush, grooming trails and paths, planting beautiful trees,...with my large foolish dog bounding and laughing at my side. Now that I’ve written all of this, I think I don’t need to wish for friends who don’t want me. I’m on my knees thanking God .... the best friend of all.
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We are very much alike only with an age gap (I'm mid 50s).I don't have a large circle of friends but like yourself I'm an introvert and never really get reciprocal invitations. It can be disheartening and it is for me when your own work pals won't invite you for a pint or other. It really makes you think am I doing something wrong? I have been married for 23 years September but we haven't any children. 48 years in the same job must be a real achievement and you must have really enjoyed it. I have over 30 years at Jaguar Land Rover.
I went through a spell of what you could call 'mental issues' a few years back and to pull me through it I bought myself a camera and it really helped. 27 acres of where you are would be lovely to wander taking photos and leaving things behind for a while. I joined a club and made a few friends. It is really helpful to have something to focus on. I am lucky though in having a lovely caring wife who has helped along the way. Take the package and enjoy your retirement, make the most of the time you have together.
I wish you all the very best of health. Kindest regards, Stephen.
I'm alone now, but live with my daughter and son-in-law who also have 25 acres of rough hillside, ponies and a couple of sheep. I used to have chickens and ducks but not now.. I also have a softy loving intelligent collie, odd bits of garden and a greenhouse, amazing countryside and wildlife around me to keep me busy and active. Each new day is a bonus and to be lived.
In my mid 70s I travelled a lot, and am very glad of the memories I made. both with my husband and after he passed on, on my own.. I'm still pretty fit and active, with friends I can go to, but happy in my own company too!. Freedom currently is limited, but it is still a great life!!!! Take care.
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