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Contentment in retirement is not only about money

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 Still can not fully comprehend being 80 years old and 32 years-retired from law enforcement. If the following sounds harsh - it was meant to be.

I am the love survivor of a family of five - with none of my dad, mom, sister and brother having lived past 64. My best high school friend died at 62. My college roommate died a few years ago, and my best adult friend put a.38 special slug through his brain four years ago, leaving behind several million dollars for his "kids" that didn't deserve it.

Carson Thomas Lane watching his great grandfather on TV

My former boss also took his own life by hanging himself, leaving behind a thriving business that his children had no interest in acquiring. Also, the only business partner I ever had ended his life with an intentional overdose of drugs. Neither ever saw retirement, contented or otherwise.

As I write this, the sun is shining into the oceanfront condo where we spend our winters - temperature is in the 60's - I have already been to the gym - then walked three miles with my wife of 58 years - and written another article for my sports blog. Life is generally good.

Oh, and lately I have transformed into what I, and my friends, have jokingly referred to as a "movie star" - having taking part in two documentaries on a past murder case - and preparing for a third. My writing tends to get noticed on rare occasions.

'Filling your day with productive and pleasing activities is the best advice I can give to anyone presently retired - or looking down the road at it. Enjoying simple things is also in the mix, particularly if you will live on a limited budget. 

And if needed, start getting fit - today. I have a soon-to-be 12-year-old great grandson, and I find I can keep up with him in most endeavors. And never leave the kid in you behind. I don't look, feel or act like most 80-year-olds - nor do I wish to. There is more, but I will save that for later.


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