Retirement can become one's golden years of living—relaxed leisure hours for savoring happy experiences and maintaining a balanced program of good, healthy habits of physical exercise, which helps stimulate alertness. Continue to grow and change, engaging with life and those around you.

In recalling significant events from the past, I believe many are worth recording, for mere oral accounts grow dim and are too easily forgotten. Written memories leave a richer, lasting heritage for family and future generations.

During my high school years, I discovered the delight of "making word pictures. " When you feel deeply about something, search for the best words to give it expression. There will be a rhythm and flow to the lines, and perhaps even rhyme—and you have written a poem. Perhaps you would like a pattern to follow. A haiku (15 words in three lines of 5-7-5 syllables) is fun and surprisingly easy to write:

Take some time this day
For "making memories" to
Cherish tomorrow.

Each fresh new day is
A one-time gift from heaven
Sent by God above.

Every morning
Offers us fresh adventures
In daily living.

Try writing some of your own to share with others.

I find my volunteer visits to nursing homes are a great joy, and I always look forward to returning. Both residents and staff are so appreciative and responsive to my "readings" each week. The verses seem to open windows of communication—encouraging hearers to compare experiences and listen to others share their thoughts and feelings. My life has been enriched with new friendships and fresh purpose, realizing that sharing one's talents can truly make a difference, bringing pleasure for others. Becoming a Retired Senior Volunteer Person is one way of expressing thanks for the countless blessings in my life.