I recently retired from a career with the federal government. I worked
for over 35 years in the air traffic control system, starting as a
controller and then working my way through staff positions, traffic
management/efficiency, evaluations, program/project management and
implementation, and management positions at facily, regional, and
national levels both in and out of the operation. I even got to do
some software development along the way and helped develop and
implement a nationwide information management system as well as a few
local software tools for my facility.
I don't share this to brag, I'm sharing my accomplishments. But I left
my career quietly. No trumpets and fanfare, just a quiet exit. It was
like I was getting off of a really loud and raucous bus.
It's been so relaxing to unwind and decompress. But I still get
twinges of what feels like guilt for not making a bigger deal about
the end of my career.
I had several of my "guys" that retired while I was responsible for
them. Most of them left the same way, telling me that they did NOT
want any celebrations or parties, they just wanted to fade into the
woodwork. Most of the other people were bothered by this and tried to
do things, but I reminded them of what the retiring people's wishes
and we kept it low-key.
I guess I saw that and wanted something similar, to just step from one
existence into the promised existence without making a big deal of it.
My wife and several others have thought it strange but have kept it
low-key for me.
I do find it fascinating that only one of my managers texted me to
congratulate me. The others were way too focused on getting better
seats on the bus while it was moving. Or trying to tell the driver
where to turn as soon as the bus got going again.
I feel so much more relaxed now. No threats from the union or other
managers, no crises that make me think the world is going to end, just
day-to-day living at my pace.
Thank you, God, for your blessings and fulfilled promises!
