After years of working as a flight attendant—where schedules are very rigid (your job will leave without you)—and guiding three kids into adulthood, I’ve come to realize the value of both structure and spontaneity.
I love the Italian concept of “il dolce far niente,” which translates to “the sweetness of doing nothing.” It reminds me that rest and reflection are not wasted time, but rather essential for recharging. Since retiring, I’ve believed that a slower pace reduces stress (and my blood pressure ) and encourages mindfulness.
It has been a challenge to transition from the mindset of always feeling I should be busy to making room for spontaneity and enjoying the moment.
Adapting to retirement has required patience, not my strong suit, and flexibility. However, with this adaptation has come the gift of learning to let go of unnecessary stress and appreciate life’s unpredictability. I thought I had grasped this 25 years ago when our second daughter was diagnosed with cancer.
Ultimately, aside from concrete issues like financial resources and health concerns, I believe that much of life’s quality comes down to perspective. I now have the power to choose how I respond, time to reflect on what I value, and how I spend my time.
Having experienced the rigor of airline schedules and the unpredictability of raising children, I truly understand the importance of balancing structure and flexibility. My hope for my kids is that they find their own balance: to be self-sufficient while also remembering to enjoy the journey long before I did.
I so enjoy your conversations! Though I don't always comment, I always find them thought-provoking.
I've just returned from the states, where it was 60-80 degrees and rainy. Am readjusting to the hottest season in Mérida (April and May, always in the 100s to 100-teens). That means I am taking naps, showers, drinking water or electrolytes, and trying to avoid outside in any way I can! I laughed my way through this post thinking about naps, food, drivers 😱, and heat. Such fun to read you ladies!
You must be happy to be safely back in Merida, Sharee, despite the heat. I have a trip to the States in August and have to admit that I am not excited to return for the visit. Well, I am looking forward to seeing our daughter, friends and family. And Ann will be there for a visit too, so our collaboration won’t be virtual for a week or two. Stay cool.
Dear Kris and Ann,
After years of working as a flight attendant—where schedules are very rigid (your job will leave without you)—and guiding three kids into adulthood, I’ve come to realize the value of both structure and spontaneity.
I love the Italian concept of “il dolce far niente,” which translates to “the sweetness of doing nothing.” It reminds me that rest and reflection are not wasted time, but rather essential for recharging. Since retiring, I’ve believed that a slower pace reduces stress (and my blood pressure ) and encourages mindfulness.
It has been a challenge to transition from the mindset of always feeling I should be busy to making room for spontaneity and enjoying the moment.
Adapting to retirement has required patience, not my strong suit, and flexibility. However, with this adaptation has come the gift of learning to let go of unnecessary stress and appreciate life’s unpredictability. I thought I had grasped this 25 years ago when our second daughter was diagnosed with cancer.
Ultimately, aside from concrete issues like financial resources and health concerns, I believe that much of life’s quality comes down to perspective. I now have the power to choose how I respond, time to reflect on what I value, and how I spend my time.
Having experienced the rigor of airline schedules and the unpredictability of raising children, I truly understand the importance of balancing structure and flexibility. My hope for my kids is that they find their own balance: to be self-sufficient while also remembering to enjoy the journey long before I did.
I so enjoy your conversations! Though I don't always comment, I always find them thought-provoking.
Thanks for your comment, Diane. Looking forward to meeting you next week…we will linger over coffee, the Italian way.
I've just returned from the states, where it was 60-80 degrees and rainy. Am readjusting to the hottest season in Mérida (April and May, always in the 100s to 100-teens). That means I am taking naps, showers, drinking water or electrolytes, and trying to avoid outside in any way I can! I laughed my way through this post thinking about naps, food, drivers 😱, and heat. Such fun to read you ladies!
You must be happy to be safely back in Merida, Sharee, despite the heat. I have a trip to the States in August and have to admit that I am not excited to return for the visit. Well, I am looking forward to seeing our daughter, friends and family. And Ann will be there for a visit too, so our collaboration won’t be virtual for a week or two. Stay cool.
How fun to get to be together! Have a good visit with those you love!