Chapters in your life closing

I think the most daunting time for me was when DH finally retired from the Army after 22 years. We had been married for nineteen of them. Suddenly we were civilians and felt we had left our family behind, because that is, in essence, what the services become. People were very curious about our previous life, and couldn’t understand why anyone in their right mind would want to pack up their home and move every three years. We actually missed it for ages but you settle into a new pattern with new people eventually. The ties are always there though, and the allegiance to the military never goes away.

I so identify with this post and reading all the comments has made me feel less alone with the situation. I unfortunately have an energy limiting health condition which now limits what I can do enormously. If I was able, I would be out there doing loads of voluntary work and hobbies. As it is, my voluntary work is admin based done remotely but it’s better than nothing. Having no purpose is our biggest health hazard so we have to find one xx

I am very sorry to those who have been forced out of their jobs due to ill health.
Today I was called into my team leader’s office to be told that the people on high, will not be renewing my contract, through no fault other than my age. The local townhall do not employ anyone over 70 and they have just realized I was born in 1950.

I too miss the days when my husband and I looked after my two grandchildren, pre school and then school run and after school fun. Now my husband is no longer here and my grandchildren are teens and have full social lives, I feel surplus to requirements. I see them regularly but not part of their daily life, which is ok but I still remember the days when nanna was so much fun to be with.
At least my little dog wants to be with me and since getting her I bless every day I’ll have her.

I have just started a short course in Art History at my local university- it’s given me a new interest and inspiration for travel. I also love being a student again, taking notes, having a reading list and research tasks. Please consider some further education courses to spark your next passion!

I have been told I shouldn’t leave the country due to health reasons,so adjusting to that——-

Dempie55

I have just started a short course in Art History at my local university- it’s given me a new interest and inspiration for travel. I also love being a student again, taking notes, having a reading list and research tasks. Please consider some further education courses to spark your next passion!

This is a great idea :-) I've done some myself when younger and think the OP would find this good too :-) Especially the Art History one - you go on visits don't you? We had tutorial support groups (Even if online rather than in person).

I so much identify with losing a sense of belonging and purpose LilCatMomma. I look back on the chapters of my life and cant believe that I used to be so busy and engaged. I am eternally grateful to still be here, having lost my parents and younger brother, but I struggle with working out what use I am now to the world. I do have two volunteer jobs and that definitely helps, so you might like to look around and see if there is anything you would enjoy. I work with the Royal Voluntary Service who have a whole range of roles.

Hi. I’m 64. I’m retired a year and have found I’m happy in my own company.
I thought about joining U3A but then I realised I’d be overwhelmed by all the new people and being tied to meeting and doing things as certain times.
I’ve realised I’m a free spirit who has to do what I want when I want. I never realised this before!
I looked after grandchildren for 7 years, now I rarely see them. My son and d I law are self absorbed and it’s all about her family. So, what can I do about that? Absolutely nada. But it frees me even more,
I play walking netball every week and pickleball. I’m not tied into that, it’s pay as you go which suits. I get to talk to others, have a laugh and get invited to other things if I want. It’s pretty perfect. I’ve realised I need very little. X

My Dad died on Sunday evening, peacefully in his own bed, thankfully. That’s end of a brilliant chapter 😔

Mt61 Condolences but it sounds like a perfect end to a brilliant life

Mt61: my condolences 💐

Mt61 sincere condolences but there is gratitude to be had in a ‘good death’. My darling mum had that too.