We had such high hopes that my mum would retire, move to the countryside, and leave her three-bedroom flat to me and my husband!
Let me tell you about my neighbour, Lucille. Shes 68 now and had been living alone in her spacious flat. Recently, she rented it out and went off on a holiday.
Her daughter, Emily, came to me in a state, complaining:
“What on earth is my mother doing? Shes let me down terribly! Now my mother-in-law rants that Ill lose my marbles in old age just like her. She says the apple doesnt fall far from the tree. And my husband and Iweve just taken out a loan for a car! Were already two months behind on payments. We were counting on Mum to help us, but shes gone and rented out the flatand swanned off on holiday instead!”
I stared at Emily, bewildered. Why should her mother be responsible for their car loan? But she carried on:
“My mother-in-law is furious that were still living in her house while Mums off renting out hers!”
I could see Emily wanted my sympathy, but honestly? I think Lucille did the right thing. Shes earned the right to live as she pleases. Why should anyone assume a woman must dedicate her retirement to her children and grandchildren? Its not fair! I had to ask:
“Why dont you and your husband stand on your own two feet? Why didnt you spend fifteen years of marriage saving for a place of your own? Then your mother-in-law wouldnt have a reason to nag.”
Emily sighed.
“We just assumed Mum would retire to some little cottage in Devon, and wed get her flat!”
I couldnt resist teasing her.
“What if Lucille remarries? She had a friend who went on holiday to Spain, met a man, and married him. Now shes living there, happy as can be. Maybe Lucille will do the same.”
Emily gaped at me. Not long ago, I saw photos of Lucille onlineshe was glowing, writing about how much she was enjoying her freedom. I was thrilled for her. She made the right choice. Age shouldnt be a barrier to happiness or new adventures. Life doesnt stop just because youve retiredif anything, its the perfect time to start living.
