So much to think, to say, to feel…the long-awaited (and oftentimes dreaded) retirement day is here…

Today, for however long it takes, I will sit quietly so that I can process and ponder, with gratitude, my work-life journey, pausing to remember all the people who have been integral to where I have been, what I have done, who I have become.

Among those who have accompanied me, some stood by, watching, waiting, whispering; others pressed, pushed, and pulled.   I am grateful to them all.

Today, the emphasis will be on appreciating my yesterdays in order to better welcome and appreciate my tomorrows.

Today, I will borrow the Psalmist’s words, and say nothing else in this post, in tribute to God and all those He sent into my work life (especially those “thorns in my side” whose presence I didn’t appreciate–sorry to say: even still! Today is the day to make peace–as best I can–with them, too.)

“This is the day the Lord has made; we will be glad and rejoice in it.”

Gratitude. Joy. Watchwords for today. No matter what.

Please pray for me, and all those like me who retire today. Thank you!