I have been asked this question many times over the last few weeks. It’s a natural question due to the circumstances. I am retiring! February 29th will be my last day at the school district. So naturally people are asking, “Are you excited?”

This has been a somewhat difficult question to answer. The simple answer would be either yes or no. But in this case, as I’m sure with most life-altering transitions, the answer is not always simple. I think an honest answer would be 80% yes and 20% other. 

Then the other day, a coworker asked me, “Are you excited or nervous?” What a great way to phrase the question! Yes, I am absolutely excited about retiring. But that excitement is intermingled with so many other emotions. I am experiencing sadness at the thought of leaving my team and friends. I am experiencing regret wondering if I adequately demonstrated Christ in the workplace. And there is also some worry in that I need to find another job to supplement my pension. So like getting ready for a plane trip, there’s a lot of excitement mixed with some nervousness.

But, yes, I am excited about the opportunities that are awaiting me in the future. I am excited about no longer having a high-stress and demanding job. I am excited about being a grandpa. (Yes, our first grandchild is due in May!) I am excited about spending more time with Debbie. I am excited about the prospect of being involved in peoples’ lives without a demanding schedule. I’m excited to start writing again. I’m excited about developing my photography business. And the list of opportunities go on.

One thing is certain, I don’t plan on being bored during retirement.