I woke up this morning thinking that I should have ventured to Rome yesterday to witness the final address by retiring Pontiff, Benedict XVI. As I started to lay out the facts in front of me, the connections between us became a little uncanny.
First, we’re both Catholics. But that’s not where it ends.
You see, Pope Benedict retired yesterday at the age of 85. The same moment that the gates of Castel Gandolfo closed, signalling the official end of this papacy, I officially reached my 85 factor in the teaching profession. That means my age, added to my years of service, added up to 85, enabling me to retire today, March 1st, with a full pension.
Not that I’m going to do that. In fact, the presence two young kids, a still-too-large mortgage and a continuing desire to get up each morning and feel useful will probably keep me working until I die.
But, it’s a day to mark. At the very least, its a day to raise a glass in honour of the last 30 years of a life in education, and propose a toast to the next 30!
So, tonight at Ned Devine’s in Milton, Zoe and I will be gathering for a few drinks. And if any of you are in the area and want to join us after 8:00, I’ll buy your first drink!
Here’s to 85 and February 28th. Sorry, you Holiness, I couldn’t make your celebration, but you’re certainly invited to mine!
Congratulations on reaching that milestone. It is an indication of a career well spent. If I was in Milton tonight, I’d join you in raising a glass and a toast. A retirement number is just that, a number. It needs to be looked at in perspective and with the children and mortgage, that helps with that perspective. I hope that you had your tongue in cheek a bit about the “feeling useful”. The thing about a change in career is that you can now control your benevolent time. There’s much to be said about that.
All the best to you and your family as you move forward. Take the time to reflect backwards on your accomplishments. You’ll be amazed when you see all the puzzle pieces. How did you ever manage to fit them together?!
Thanks Doug. I appreciate the sentiments, and the advice. It has been a little bit of a surreal day for me…
Hi Steve,
Congratulations! I wish I could be at Ned’s with you, your family, and friends.
Now that I I will have a beer in your honour. Your are a great friend and very inspirational learner and educator. Looking forward to Skype in the near future. I see that DPCDS has named a Principal for the ‘Global School’ at the old St. James site – special memories of St. James as it was my first school.
Gerry
Gerry, thanks for the comments. I’m looking forward to following your journey as you embark on some pretty exciting stuff. Thanks for your support and your friendship!
Whether you actually submit the letter doesn’t matter. Just knowing that you can is joyful in itself. Yours is a career that deserves a glorious celebration and had I read this post on time I would have been there. You will continue to serve children and teachers even if you do decide to change directions. Best wishes Stephen.
Thanks Mike. Sorry that I missed this comment. You’ve been an inspiration to me in terms of how to approach the next steps! Thanks for your continued support and insights.