Retirement

Retirement

We all have our own ways of thinking about retirement—whether due to age or other circumstances. Some dream of adventure, while others look forward to simply relaxing and doing nothing. And then, there are those who haven’t given it much thought yet.

I remember one of my dive trips, where I had the honor of meeting a remarkable gentleman during breakfast. He wore a simple T-shirt paired with a traditional Indonesian sarong. His warm and friendly demeanor stood out immediately. With a bright smile, he greeted me and politely asked if he could join our table. Since it was large enough for about ten people, we happily welcomed him.

As soon as he sat down, he struck up a conversation, asking my thoughts on the food and the surrounding ambiance. It was a brief exchange before he moved on to another table, coffee cup in hand. I assumed he was just looking for a better spot. But then, I noticed something curious—he kept switching tables, continuing his breakfast at different spots. Strange, I thought.

To my surprise, he eventually returned to our table and seamlessly joined our group’s conversation. His easygoing nature and generosity made it effortless for him to connect with us. In the midst of our chit-chat, I casually asked if he was also a guest at the hotel. He simply smiled before revealing the truth—he was actually the owner. He came for breakfast almost every day, not as a formality, but to mingle with his guests and make new friends.

What a life! He was a retired man who had once worked for a major international company. But instead of spending his retirement idly, he had chosen a colorful, fulfilling path—one filled with meaningful connections and shared moments.

I can’t help but wish for a retirement like his—to have my own place, share breakfast with people from around the world, learn from the younger generation, swap stories, and laugh together. Just embracing life… until the time comes.

 

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