Keep Calm and Carry On: Retirement Games

As we approach retirement, it's natural to feel a mix of emotions. Excitement for the freedom and possibilities ahead, but also anxiety about the unknown. In recent years, I've had the privilege of traveling extensively, meeting people from all walks of life, and learning valuable lessons along the way.

My latest adventure took me to Oshkosh, Wisconsin; Nashville, Tennessee; and Oxford, Mississippi, where I encountered a diverse range of individuals with unique perspectives on life. From rednecks to hicks, each person brought their own set of experiences and quirks to the table.

One particular encounter stands out in my mind. On a recent flight from Los Angeles, I found myself seated behind two gentlemen who were engaging in a conversation that left me feeling frustrated and amused. They were discussing the supposed pitfalls of traveling to Memphis, Tennessee – yes, you read that right – Memphis, Tennessee! To make matters worse, they were using outdated stereotypes to describe people from the South.

As I listened to their shallow remarks, I couldn't help but think about how far removed they were from reality. It's as if they were stuck in a time warp, oblivious to the fact that Southerners are just as tech-savvy and sophisticated as anyone else.

Their conversation was like a game of verbal Jenga, with each player trying to outdo the other in their ignorance. I found myself wanting to turn around and set them straight, but something inside me told me to keep calm and carry on. After all, I'm not here to educate or convert; I'm just here to learn and enjoy the ride.

As we embark on our own retirement journeys, it's essential to remember that life is full of surprises, and sometimes those surprises can be quite... enlightening. By embracing each new experience with an open mind and a sense of humor, we can turn even the most frustrating situations into opportunities for growth and connection.

So, the next time you find yourself in a situation that tests your patience or challenges your perspective, take a deep breath, smile, and remind yourself to keep calm and carry on. After all, retirement is all about embracing life's twists and turns – and having fun along the way!

Keep calm and carry on retirement games