As we face another retirement here at the Kelley Library, it reminds us how bittersweet retirements are. Of course we are happy for the individual who, after putting in a lifetime of dedication and hard work, now has an opportunity to spread their wings and indulge in activities that are pure enjoyment. It may mean a chance to try some new endeavor, something the person has wanted to do but not had the time. It might mean being able to embrace more fully a favorite hobby. It might be an opportunity to travel and spend time with family. It may just be a chance to sit and relax.
Everyone I have seen who has retired comes back a few months later looking years younger, happy, and without a second thought about the job they left behind. It is easy to be envious!
But for those of us left behind, it is often a different story, missing the daily opportunity to socialize with the retiree. It means changes, sometimes lots of changes as new staff is welcomed, new tasks are taken on, and expertise and experience once relied on is gone. Change is always uncomfortable, making us look inward and be self-evaluating. But like death and taxes, change is inevitable, and we must deal with it - hopefully with the joy of a new retiree!
You are invited to stop by on June 29th between 2 and 4 to wish Audrey well on her new adventure.
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