Fifty Plus (50+) - nothing like the death of a mentor to get you biking

Notified of the death of a previous manager Monday. All business, Great leader, worked 60 hrs per week, smoaked cigars, retired (pushed out younger generation) in 1989, Died at age 69. Got to thinking of his 'deeds'. Never exercised, but highly respected, was my idol for corporate career growth, He liked to be called 'tank commander', Underwent 3 divorces. Thought about it, took off yesterday and did a 22 mile ride. 29 degrees but sunny, he would have thought me a fool. I'm in middle management, earnings YTD exceed $40,000, hard too quit (Velvet handcuffs) unhappiest I have ever been in my life career wise. BUT I'm married to a wonderful woman and personal life is great. (I said no to 'higher levels on Mgt. He'd of thought me a fool.)

Final thought in riding into driveway - wonder how he would have felt to be HAPPY in doing things away from work. He never achieved this. Also believe I will outlive him (in age) by several years. I'm not yet rertired, but took a long step closer yesterday. Just thought I'd share thoughts with a few close friends (Granted -I never met you folks).

Baron, I completely understand what you are saying. I have leaned a few things along the way, some may sound trite, but they are very true.
Work will always be there, family, friends won't.
We only have a finite amount of time, why not spend some of it doing things you like with the people you love.
I am in middle mgmt as well, with little desire to make the sacrifices necessary to advance, some may see this as ambitionless, but my goals are just in a different direction.

Spent 30 years with the same company before my bypass. That made me realise there is more to life than work or sucking up to the bosses. Post- bypass settled into an easier time at work in a different position, spent more time away from work, less time worrying about work, and more time doing the things that I wanted to do in the time that was now available. 2 years later my riding mate was talking about how just another couple of years and he could retire from his own business, and would I fancy a couple of months riding round Europe? He was the one that I had been riding with for 12 years, and really helped get me back riding after the bypass. We only gently discussed the trip, but it was on. Which countries we wanted to visit, possible routes, overrall costings, but still in early stages. then one evening I got the phone call that He was out on a ride and could I collect his bike from about 5 miles away. He had died on the ride of a heart attack.

It does not matter who you are, a great friend, mentor, or even yourself. Death will hit all of us at some time. What I am now trying to do is make certain that my own demise will be as far away as possible.

Just 11 months ago, without notice I picked up my stuff and walked out at the end of the day, never to return to an extremely high stress situation.

Best decision I have ever made, but wish I could have made it earlier. Due to being "handcuffed" to medical benefits, etc., couldn't. But 11 months ago I could, figured things out and just did it. However, the stress I went through BEFORE I was able to leave is in large part the cause ofsome of my current health problems. But, I did a 35 mile ride yesterday with no problems, so I guess things aren't looking too bad.

Get out while you are still healthy! Stress is TRULY a killer.

I've done many stupid things in my life, but the smartest thing I've ever done was retire at age 52. I spent 31 years with the same company, much of it under stress. Fortunately, my company offered full retirment plus benifits after 30 years of service; so I bailed out. My wife and I lived on my pension until last September when my social security kicked in, which made life a little easier.

The freedom is great...I think I was born to retire.

Life's a ***** and then you die, my bikeing has helped counter this. My dad had a stroke (bad life style) at 51 and died at 60, I am now 53 and in not too bad of shape. If I have a stroke or heart attack now it will be genetics and not a good for nothing lifestyle.

Everything that has been said here is all true, except for one recurring theme with people who are fitness addicts especially ones who are getting a bit long on the tooth (like us).

I workout more than most, take care of myself more than most, and value my good health more than most, however, I never think for one moment that this gives me the edge on "the other guy" or on life itself, in terms of translating my good health today into feeling that it will give me more years or more quality years.

I have learned the hard way from first hand esperience, that life is a crapshoot and that good health, quality years, etc. has as much to do with luck as it does with following a healthy lifestyle. Sure less stress, more exercise, proper diet, etc. etc. all are important, but you can do all that and still get cancer tomorrow, or drop dead, or have an MI etc., while the highly stressed overweight smoker we all think is somehow beneath us might live forever (in relative terms).

To me valueing what we have and not taking it for granted while we have it is very important. The future is very uncertain at best. Enjoy what good fortune we have while we have it.

My mom and I had a conversation tonight that was very much in line with this. She asked me if I realized that I was more than a year older than my father was when he died. I did.

She and I talked about his lifestyle and the major operations he had, how he ate, and what he did for exercise. In short, too many rich foods (she said at least I eat better, about half as well as she would like), exercise (shooting pool and drinking beer on the weekends) and so on.

Now mom's gonna be 83 real quick and she said she worries very much everytime I go out cycling (you call and let me know you're home okay) but did say she was happy that I did, at least, get my exercise and enjoyed getting it.

I know she wonders if he would still be around had he done what I am doing. So do I.


jim

My mom and I had a conversation tonight that was very much in line with this. She asked me if I realized that I was more than a year older than my father was when he died. I did.

She and I talked about his lifestyle and the major operations he had, how he ate, and what he did for exercise. In short, too many rich foods (she said at least I eat better, about half as well as she would like), exercise (shooting pool and drinking beer on the weekends) and so on.

Now mom's gonna be 83 real quick and she said she worries very much everytime I go out cycling (you call and let me know you're home okay) but did say she was happy that I did, at least, get my exercise and enjoyed getting it.

I know she wonders if he would still be around had he done what I am doing. So do I.


jim

Interesting, thoughtful posts, all.

With regard to what your mom says, it reminds me of when I was biking on the very mountainous island of Crete. A woman was planning to climb one of the mountains, and someone said, "You could die up there." And without a moment's hesitation she answered, "Maybe, but at least I'll die on Crete."

"Maybe, but at least I'll die on Crete."

That is beautiful.

I'm not over 50 (Just turned 35), so I hope you guys don't mine me replying to this.

When I was just 21 my Mother died from ovarian cancer. I grew up on a farm where my father worked sunrise to sunset (really earlier than that and later too, but there's no quaint little quote to cover that.) For all of my life I listened to my mother talk of all of the places she wanted to go, things she wanted to do WHEN my father retired. She was only 49 when she died. So all of those WHENS never occured.

I finished school and went into the Graphic Design field and started into the overtime and chasing the check. It wasn't long until i realized I was saying I"m going to ______________ WHEN I've achieved this much here. I packed my stuff up and drove across the country searching for everything I could find that had meaning and value in life. On my journey I ended up at Yosemite and (If you've ever been there you'll know what I mean) when I pulled through that tunnel to the famous lookout where Ansel Adams got some of his first views of the Valley, my life changed. I swore then and there that I would live a life of fullness to honor my mother. I would live so that I would never say if only. . . WHEN, but rather I would be able to say remember when. . .

I've become an art teacher now, and I try desperately to be an example to my students of how to sieze life. I try to show a passion for life that is rivaled only by my passion for them. And now I travel with the students to Europe (and in 2006, Russia) and travel the country during my off time over the summer.

Since that great decision to walk away from a healthy salary and great benefits to nothingness and poverty (that's how my friends saw my decision) I have: been to 48 of the 50 states, Canada, Mexico and Europe. Found a career that fulfills me daily and allows me to pursue my passions for photography and cycling during their peak seasons. Met the love of my life (she's from North Carolina, I'm from Kentucky, we met in California, both seizing life.) and the only regret that I have is that my mother couldn't be here to see some of these glorious things with me.

My mom and I had a conversation tonight that was very much in line with this. She asked me if I realized that I was more than a year older than my father was when he died. I did.

She and I talked about his lifestyle and the major operations he had, how he ate, and what he did for exercise. In short, too many rich foods (she said at least I eat better, about half as well as she would like), exercise (shooting pool and drinking beer on the weekends) and so on.

Now mom's gonna be 83 real quick and she said she worries very much everytime I go out cycling (you call and let me know you're home okay) but did say she was happy that I did, at least, get my exercise and enjoyed getting it.

I know she wonders if he would still be around had he done what I am doing. So do I.


jim

Jim,

I can relate. My father was an alcoholic and two pack a day smoker who died of a heart attack in 1977. His birthday was just two days before mine, so every year since then, around my birthday (and his), I'm reminded of the fact that he might very well have been around to celebrate those birthdays with me if he had just had a healthier lifestyle. He was 54 when he died; I turn 54 one month from now.

Jim,

I can relate. My father was an alcoholic and two pack a day smoker who died of a heart attack in 1977. His birthday was just two days before mine, so every year since then, around my birthday (and his), I'm reminded of the fact that he might very well have been around to celebrate those birthdays with me if he had just had a healthier lifestyle. He was 54 when he died; I turn 54 one month from now.

It is scary. My dad died at 61, I am 65. BUt he was in excellent health, didn't smoke, drank little, was trim, etc. !!

Yeh, the parents of many of us didn't have the awareness nor knowledge that we do now. They did the best knew how, and left most of us with a far better life and lifestyle. And I thank my parents for all those things.When I enlisted in the USAF at18+ they told me to take my leave time where ever I was stationed at the time and see those places because I might have only one chance to see those things, so I did.

Watching best friends, buds and S.O.s die far younger than I am now is a shocker. I'll do the best I know to keep myself healthy but as someone mentioned, death awaits all.My Dr. told me one visit.......look at it this way.....70yrs now is the new 50, and 50 is the new 30

I keep my will and living will up to date however

I had a quad bypass a year ago this month....after my "recovery" I returned to work. Now I am feeling like so many other folks here that its just not worth it anymore to deal with the recurring stresses and frustrations. I am in pretty good shape to drop it all and take a few months off for cycling this summer. I would like to find out from some of the folks on here what they have done to get medical coverage once they have left their employers. Any suggestions....thanks.

I had a quad bypass a year ago this month....after my "recovery" I returned to work. Now I am feeling like so many other folks here that its just not worth it anymore to deal with the recurring stresses and frustrations. I am in pretty good shape to drop it all and take a few months off for cycling this summer. I would like to find out from some of the folks on here what they have done to get medical coverage once they have left their employers. Any suggestions....thanks.


I don't have the answer re: med. coverage but I do know from my own experience and that of others that several months of a bike tour is likely to change your life in many positive and surprising ways. You won't be the same guy when you get back. Good luck!

blackberry...thanks for the positive info...I think its coming. Got one foot out the door, just looking for fall back plan because of medical history.

Staying healthy and fit sure makes the 'now' a whole let better. I'm a few years shy of 50, but I'm very motivated to stay on the bike to prevent the steep slide into physical decline, which I was in before I started biking.

The first thing I'm going to do when my kids are old enough to be left alone for a week is go on a bike tour!! (18 yrs old - so 2 years to go)

Crap happens...As we say..we realize it earlier,the better we are ...Instead of a co-worker I respected..Mine is the opposite...the mid-80's were tough...Reason I left Florida...A jerk boss who ran of 43 ! empolyees..I was the second..Divorce , terminal father, took 1 1/2 years to succumb..Ill mother...Then took up running...Later converted to cycling...
without that help, I would have flipped out...Not been a corporate climber ever since...My concerns are family and important stuff like vacations cycling, etc...being the over stressed work-obsessed, employee only gives you a heart attack..and most often they don't appreciate it anyway...
do whatever you have to do to ride on and learn from your friend...

I workout more than most, take care of myself more than most, and value my good health more than most, however, I never think for one moment that this gives me the edge on "the other guy" or on life itself, in terms of translating my good health today into feeling that it will give me more years or more quality years.

I have learned the hard way from first hand experience, that life is a crapshoot and that good health, quality years, etc. has as much to do with luck as it does with following a healthy lifestyle. Sure less stress, more exercise, proper diet, etc. etc. all are important, but you can do all that and still get cancer tomorrow, or drop dead, or have an MI etc., while the highly stressed overweight smoker we all think is somehow beneath us might live forever (in relative terms).

To me valueing what we have and not taking it for granted while we have it is very important. The future is very uncertain at best. Enjoy what good fortune we have while we have it.

Just as "chance favors the prepared mind [Louis Pasteur]," a healthful lifestyle will improve your odds SIGNIFICANTLY in the crapshoot of life. I do wholeheartedly agree with your final paragraph, however.

To me valueing what we have and not taking it for granted while we have it is very important. The future is very uncertain at best. Enjoy what good fortune we have while we have it.


Soooo true.

Everyone dies, but not everyone lives.

Most of us will be long forgotten in a few short decades beyond our death. Precious few of us be preserved in the pages of historical memory. I'll personally be a meaningless footnote in some obscure digital file.

I sometimes reflect on a choice as I look back historically: if given the chance to relive in the past, I'd choose the much shorter life of an adventurer and social contributor whose days were fulfilling over an old geiser who died an octagenarian but who never did much more in life than graze in the field.

I would like to find out from some of the folks on here what they have done to get medical coverage once they have left their employers. Any suggestions....thanks.

Unless you have a spouse who can get you in under an umbrella at her workplace, it will be most difficult to find any affordable coverage. The Cobra laws should allow you to maintain your present coverage for 18 months at reasonable premium fees. It is a most difficult problem which ultimately gave rise to Medicare for no private insurance wants to take risks with the elderly or those with significant preexisting disease.

I would like to find out from some of the folks on here what they have done to get medical coverage once they have left their employers. Any suggestions....thanks.

For me it was Cobra for one month, then I qualifie for medicare. I pay a fair amount extra for "enhanced" medicare.

Otherwise it is most difficult. Our state teahcer's retirement program allows you to keep (but pay for) coverage if you retire early. Depending on how long you have worked under the state system, they contribute more or less to the pot. It is quite expensice.

Lots of folks just go "naked" trusting to luck.

Question in thread about medical after leaving work. I am 67 and have been retired since 2000. Only medical is medicare, but I found a local credit union that offers Dental(so-so coverage), very limited prescription discount, and very good vision coverage for about $30 a month. I understand a lot of credit unions have this type of insurance plans. Every year I have gotten back more in vision and dental benefits than the $360 yearly cost.

You may want to check credit unions for plans.

Tom

Outsourcing...Older workers are wanted gone by their employers..Yet, no medicare until 65...1.5 million Americans go bankrupt each year due to major medical costs...wonder how many are over 55...? I have talked to people who fly to England each year for dental coverage...Anyone here knowledgeable on that..Not free yet far less expensive than here...you can arrange with many travel agencies- dental vacations..
In fact, someone I ride with goes to Ensenada, Mexico for his dental work.says about 1/3 cost of US...just have to seek out the competent dentists.

Cyclezealot mentions the Mexican dental clinics.
Good choice which bears examing when you are looking for good but inexpensive work.And don't dismiss it out of hand. I have several friends who went there and ALL are well satisfied with the results AND the cost including traveling.
Comparatively, with the Fla Gold Coast costs were 1/4.
Plus the med school in Guadalajuarha(sp) produced, my primary care Dr., an orthopedist friend, who ranks tops in the SW city in which he practices and the cardioliogist who saved my life, so Mexican practioners are def worth investigating

Here is my approach.

Work is important. It allows me to accomplish the personal goals and objectives in my life. I approach it every day with 100% effort. However, I only do this while at work and only give 100%. My list of important life things includes work but it is way down the list. Family, faith, friends, health, relationships and personal satisfaction are all way ahead of work. It really is all about balance, especially for those of us that are not able to retire just yet. What really makes this balance difficult is the time I spend at work which skews the balancing act for sure. Since there is not a lot I can do about that I make sure my time away from work is spent very wisely. After all Time really is the most important resource.

Plus the med school in Guadalajuarha(sp) produced, my primary care Dr., an orthopedist friend, who ranks tops in the SW city in which he practices and the cardioliogist who saved my life, so Mexican practioners are def worth investigating[/QUOTE]



Beware of trusting yourself to the care of mexican practitioners. Would you really travel to Mexico to have your gallbladder removed or to have your knee replaced? US licensed doctors who received their medical school training in Guadalajara do well in spite of their inferior medical school training. They have to go through rigorous postgraduate qualifying programs in the US before they are allowed to practice here. They are a self-select group of highly motived individuals who in nearly all cases did not meet the admission requirements for US medical schools.

Dental care is another story and I can't speak on that issue, but most dental care procedures are unlikely to put life or limb at risk.

Beware of trusting yourself to the care of mexican practitioners.

Some of what this poster says makes some sense but much of it is nonsense. There are good and bad doctors everywhere including many in the US. My neice is a 4th year medical student in Saltillo Mexico (she is Mexican) and my sister is a licensed pediatrician in North America (she is Canadian) and I have spoken with them both about this very subject, plus have spent time reviewing both their training, and to tell you the truth there is very little difference. Access to more equipment and more costly drugs is more widespread in US, and yes there are some poorly trained doctors in Mexico, but, my Mexican brother-in-law underwent experimental arterial brain by-pass and my mother in law had a her colon removed and while the post op care is wanting due to resources, and there can be lineups, they received pretty much state of the art care there. And this was in the publilc Seguro Social system. The private system there can be better (or worse). Smaller towns definitely have inferior services.

In today's environment you almost have to be your own physician or at least be very familiar with what is being done to you and by whom. Generalizations just don't cut it.

Mexico has an excellant medical school...If Mexico has a problem with medical care , I am sure it is related to regulation and not the fact all doctors are poorly trained..With research you can overcome who is a poor doctor.
My friend Joe is sold on his Ensenada doctor...And he now takes regular dental trips to Ensenada.
In fact..Anyone see , THink it was Lou Dobbs , as couple weeks ago...American insurance providers were actually advocating sending Americans abroad because medical costs are so much less elsewhere..
This from our beloved insurance companies...Maybe next gaul bladder operation you might find yourself in Thailand or Taiwan..Talk about the ultimate outsourcing.. wonder if they put you up in the Ritz...I demand they pick up my bar tab.

Mexico has an excellant medical school...If Mexico has a problem with medical care , I am sure it is related to regulation and not the fact all doctors are poorly trained..With research you can overcome who is a poor doctor.
My friend Joe is sold on his Ensenada doctor...And he now takes regular dental trips to Ensenada.
In fact..Anyone see , THink it was Lou Dobbs , as couple weeks ago...American insurance providers were actually advocating sending Americans abroad because medical costs are so much less elsewhere..
This from our beloved insurance companies...Maybe next gaul bladder operation you might find yourself in Thailand or Taiwan..Talk about the ultimate outsourcing.. wonder if they put you up in the Ritz...I demand they pick up my bar tab.


I concur. Not all care in Mexico is bad. I know some that some MD's in Mexico receive fellowship training here in the US, and I'm told that Mexico City has some first class facilities. The message was beware.

On the issue of outsourcing of medical care for US citizens, I have to agree that may now be a very rational way to go. With regard to health care being affordable or even accessible for many, our system is desperately in need of a fix, perhaps a revolutionary fix.

Another poster suggested that much of what I wrote was nonsense. I dont' think so, I have personally known a sizeable number of Mexico trained physicians and I've never heard one of them praise their training there. They felt it was a pay your money and learn-any-way-you can system. My favorite story is from a practicing ob/gyn who had to smuggle his own cadaver across the El Paso-Juarez border in order to learn anatomy. He said his training was so bad that I just wouldn't believe without having been there myself. He harbors a good bit of bitterness over his Mexico medical school experience particularly with the high fees and bribes he had to pay.

[QUOTE=wpflem]I concur. Not all care in Mexico is bad. .

On the issue of outsourcing of medical care for US citizens, I have to agree that may now be a very rational way to go. With regard to health care being affordable or even accessible for many, our system is desperately in need of a fix, perhaps a revolutionary fix.

I think this is the ultimate in irony...We are told we have the best care in the world....And now those that tell us that, consider sending us as patients, overseas...I predict there will be no overhaul of the US system, until it financially goes broke...But, that may not take that long.

Notified of the death of a previous manager Monday. All business, Great leader, worked 60 hrs per week, smoaked cigars, retired (pushed out younger generation) in 1989, Died at age 69. Got to thinking of his 'deeds'. Never exercised, but highly respected, was my idol for corporate career growth, He liked to be called 'tank commander', Underwent 3 divorces. Thought about it, took off yesterday and did a 22 mile ride. 29 degrees but sunny, he would have thought me a fool. I'm in middle management, earnings YTD exceed $40,000, hard too quit (Velvet handcuffs) unhappiest I have ever been in my life career wise. BUT I'm married to a wonderful woman and personal life is great. (I said no to 'higher levels on Mgt. He'd of thought me a fool.)

Final thought in riding into driveway - wonder how he would have felt to be HAPPY in doing things away from work. He never achieved this. Also believe I will outlive him (in age) by several years. I'm not yet rertired, but took a long step closer yesterday. Just thought I'd share thoughts with a few close friends (Granted -I never met you folks).

On my ride today, I ran into just the opposite of the tank commander. John Sinibaldi. 91 years old, and riding strong (two time olympion '32 & '36 & 10 time USA champion). I want to be like him when I grow up - not the tank commander.

BTW, what changed my life style (I am a retired airline pilot), is that I couldn't help but notice all of the black rimmed notices that used to appear on the bulletion board of the pilot's lounge. They typically announced the death of one of our retirees. I couldn't help but notice that the typical age of deather was 61-62 years old. Pretty grim thought, dying within one to two years of retirement with (hopefully) a wonderful retirement to enjoy. I started working out regularly, and 45 years later at the age of 65 I feel as vigorous and healthy as I did as a youngster! RIP tank commander, but I don't intend to follow you footsteps.

My grandfather smoked unfiltered cigarettes and drank scotch for 70 of his 90 years.

Guys, I KNOW my exercise will NOT help my odds in the crapshoot of life. We all finally roll craps, that's a 100% certainty. I believe and hope that exercise leads to a healthier longer life, but I don't really count on it, or for that matter really even care. I just got in from a hard ride in a blustery wind . . . and enjoyed every second of it, pain sweat and all. Made me know I was alive and part of God's great world. Nice scenary and friendship.

That's why I am addicted to this stuff. Been that way 40 years now.

Tyson

Guys, I KNOW my exercise will NOT help my odds in the crapshoot of life. We all finally roll craps, that's a 100% certainty. I believe and hope that exercise leads to a healthier longer life, but I don't really count on it, or for that matter really even care. I just got in from a hard ride in a blustery wind . . . and enjoyed every second of it, pain sweat and all. Made me know I was alive and part of God's great world. Nice scenary and friendship.

That's why I am addicted to this stuff. Been that way 40 years now.

Tyson

Which is a great point. My fiance's husband was 54 years old when he died. He was an outstanding athlete, and had many triathalons to his credit. He worked out regularly. Unfortunately, while doing his swimming workout one day, he suffered cardiac arrest and died at the pool. As an aside, my fiance started a group that puts defibrillators in public places and police cars (including of course the pool in which he died). The autopsy showed no blockage whatsoever in his arteries - he had been training since early in life. He did, however, have something many people are not even aware of - LDL pattern B, which can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. Her pro triathalete son also has it, and is being carefully watched by a cardiologist.

Bottom line: The best laid plans, and the best shape often lose out to our genetic mapping.

Guys, I KNOW my exercise will NOT help my odds in the crapshoot of life. We all finally roll craps, that's a 100% certainty. I believe and hope that exercise leads to a healthier longer life, but I don't really count on it, or for that matter really even care. I just got in from a hard ride in a blustery wind . . . and enjoyed every second of it, pain sweat and all. Made me know I was alive and part of God's great world. Nice scenary and friendship.

That's why I am addicted to this stuff. Been that way 40 years now.

Tyson

Well, exercise - or actually the lack of it - CAN cause you to have a shortened life - i.e., morbid obesity.

The best reason to exercise is the improved quality of life. Being able to get out of a chair easily is just one example of many - being able to go for a long hike, ride a long ride, etc. But, there are NO guarantees.

Well, exercise - or actually the lack of it - CAN cause you to have a shortened life - i.e., morbid obesity.

The best reason to exercise is the improved quality of life. Being able to get out of a chair easily is just one example of many - being able to go for a long hike, ride a long ride, etc. But, there are NO guarantees.



Indeed. Morbid obesity is a chronic life threatening disease increasing in epidemic proportion throughout this country and the industrialized world. It is now the second leading cause of preventable death in this country. It is particularly sad to see it manifest in the lives of our school age children.

I wholeheartedly agree that exercising on a bike probably pays health benefits. I didn't say exercise was bad. I said it was great and that I do it because it is fun, not because of any potential future benefit.

We are all going to die. I'm not out there trying to prolong my life. I'm out there working hard, sweating, feeling the wind in my face and the sun on my shoulders, cussing and laughing just because I like it. My daughter while she was a high school athlete and potential star basketball player once said, "Dad, I know our soccer team is not very good and that our basketball team will be in the state finals. But, I'd rather play soccer in the driving rain than be indoors playing basketball. There's something about just kicking the ball and running and playing soccer that I love."

Pretty well sums up my attitude about "Just doin' it." The health benefits are something I'll let the Type-A's and the government actuaries fret about.

Tyson

Life is MUCH easier when you abandon ambition....
That sounds like criticism, but it's not. I just turned 60, and when I started with my present employer 30 years ago, I was supposed to be a promising young up-and-comer. I got two pretty good promotions in four years, to what passes here for middle management. I didn't mind the work, but I HATED the politics, the long-range planning (especially since it was pointless--decisions were made from corporate HQ, without regard for input from my level) and the endless meetings. I could have done my job in eight hours a day easily, but if you have to do your work after spending four or five hours in meetings, you wind up only seeing your kids on Sunday mornings.
About the time I turned 40, I decided the only job I wanted was the one I'd started in. My wife agreed--she wanted me home more, and I wanted to raise my children--and I was lucky to have a boss who understood (he was a classic three-marriage, 60-hour-a-week guy, but beginning to have regrets near the end of his career). I was able to move back without stigma (they even created a "senior" category for me, to give me a little more money than I'd make otherwise) and I've been doing it happily for almost 20 years. I probably make $7,500 to $10,000 less than I would if I'd stayed in management, but I've never been sorry for one second.

Life is MUCH easier when you abandon ambition....
That sounds like criticism, but it's not. I just turned 60, and when I started with my present employer 30 years ago, I was supposed to be a promising young up-and-comer. I got two pretty good promotions in four years, to what passes here for middle management. I didn't mind the work, but I HATED the politics, the long-range planning (especially since it was pointless--decisions were made from corporate HQ, without regard for input from my level) and the endless meetings. I could have done my job in eight hours a day easily, but if you have to do your work after spending four or five hours in meetings, you wind up only seeing your kids on Sunday mornings.
About the time I turned 40, I decided the only job I wanted was the one I'd started in. My wife agreed--she wanted me home more, and I wanted to raise my children--and I was lucky to have a boss who understood (he was a classic three-marriage, 60-hour-a-week guy, but beginning to have regrets near the end of his career). I was able to move back without stigma (they even created a "senior" category for me, to give me a little more money than I'd make otherwise) and I've been doing it happily for almost 20 years. I probably make $7,500 to $10,000 less than I would if I'd stayed in management, but I've never been sorry for one second. Wow sounds kinda like the situation with where I work word for word, can't just do a job anymore there are always issues to deal with. No options for me though as the pay and benefits are way better than any thing else around so for now I am stuck. My biking helps some what but there are days it's tough to go to work. Enough of that, I ride bike because I like it and the health benefits come with it but helping the odds to live longer to see the grand kids grow up doesn't hurt a thing. Dealing with foolish drivers on the road somewhat levels the playing field. :eek:

I would love to see the health industry give people who exercise and maintain good eating habits a break in the cost in health insurance. I say, if your doctor says you are actually trying to improve your overall heath, you should get a break on health insurance. Why should I have to pay for high health insurance when there are over 50% of the population that doesn't care at all and would rather pop a pill to try and change things. I only go to the doctor once a year for a yearly checkup unless I really have to (like for cracked ribs--taking a fall off my bike). I know that exercise and eating better is improving my life, I can see in my body and they overall way I feel. When I eat crummy food, I feel crummy. Your body is like a car, if you put crummy fuel in it, it's going to run crummy. You are what you eat.

I would love to see the health industry give people who exercise and maintain good eating habits a break in the cost in health insurance. I say, if your doctor says you are actually trying to improve your overall heath, you should get a break on health insurance. Why should I have to pay for high health insurance when there are over 50% of the population that doesn't care at all and would rather pop a pill to try and change things. I only go to the doctor once a year for a yearly checkup unless I really have to (like for cracked ribs--taking a fall off my bike). I know that exercise and eating better is improving my life, I can see in my body and they overall way I feel. When I eat crummy food, I feel crummy. Your body is like a car, if you put crummy fuel in it, it's going to run crummy. You are what you eat.


By the same token, it would only be fair of them to examine your genes, to see if you were predisposed to certain things.
Let's get real..."trying to improve your overall health"
What a slippery slope.

You take care of yourself because you want to, not because your "daddy" rewards you.

I only go to the doctor once a year for a yearly checkup unless I really have to (like for cracked ribs--taking a fall off my bike). I know that exercise and eating better is improving my life, I can see in my body and they overall way I feel. When I eat crummy food, I feel crummy. Your body is like a car, if you put crummy fuel in it, it's going to run crummy. You are what you eat.

I only wish it was that simple.

I get a big charge over folks who brag about their medical excellence, what they eat, etc., etc., as if they were somehow better than the rest of us.

Many of you (us) will (have) discovered that "**** happens" no matter what or how you exercise and eat.

My Trigeminal Neuralgia had nothing to do with exercise and/or diet. Neither did my kidney stones.

Predisposition to cancer in women (and men) has nothing to do with diet or exercise. In many families, every single female has breast cancer early in life.

I could go on and on. Genetic predispoosition and even genetic diseases are also facts.

Yes, diet and exercise are important. BUt they are not the be all you make them out to be. Guess what. Some years in the future you may go to the doctor 2 or 3 or 4 or 20 times, based on nothing to do with exercise and diet. I know, I have been there. In fact, I am there right now. I have seen more docs this last year than in my entire life prior.

My dad died of a Brain Tumor (glioma) which had nothing to do with his exercise or diet. He was trim and fit.

So quit parading your plumage. Likely, your time will also come. If it doesn't, then thank your God and lucky stars.

So quit parading your plumage. Likely, your time will also come. If it doesn't, then thank your God and lucky stars.

well said DnvrFox, I'm always reminded of my Vietnam combat experiences , looking among the dead and/or multilated and thinking "Why was I the lucky one" - No answer then, none now, but I thank God every day and promised fallen friends back then and since whom weren't so lucky that I would treat every day as a gift...

I only wish it was that simple.

I get a big charge over folks who brag about their medical excellence, what they eat, etc., etc., as if they were somehow better than the rest of us.

Many of you (us) will (have) discovered that "**** happens" no matter what or how you exercise and eat.

My Trigeminal Neuralgia had nothing to do with exercise and/or diet. Neither did my kidney stones.

Predisposition to cancer in women (and men) has nothing to do with diet or exercise. In many families, every single female has breast cancer early in life.

I could go on and on. Genetic predispoosition and even genetic diseases are also facts.

Yes, diet and exercise are important. BUt they are not the be all you make them out to be. Guess what. Some years in the future you may go to the doctor 2 or 3 or 4 or 20 times, based on nothing to do with exercise and diet. I know, I have been there. In fact, I am there right now. I have seen more docs this last year than in my entire life prior.

My dad died of a Brain Tumor (glioma) which had nothing to do with his exercise or diet. He was trim and fit.

So quit parading your plumage. Likely, your time will also come. If it doesn't, then thank your God and lucky stars.

Personally, I think that was a bit rough, DF. She was only trying to illustrate that the medical system is being swamped by people who have let themselves go because the system offers up pills instead of physical exercise. In my reading, it wasn't directed at people posting here... and after all, there have been quite a few inspirational posts on BF about people who have used cycling to withdraw from the quick-fix system (ie, started as obese and lost weight to a realistic level).

I've had nasty things happen to me, too, but my impact on the health system is pretty minimal to the types of people who were the original subject of the thread.

And I agree absolutely with Velo Dog. Ambition and the corollary -- wealth -- do incredibly bad things to people emotionally and physically, at least in my own personal experience. The system plays on that, of course.

I know that exercise and eating better is improving my life, I can see in my body and they overall way I feel. When I eat crummy food, I feel crummy. Your body is like a car, if you put crummy fuel in it, it's going to run crummy. You are what you eat.
Also well said Litespeed. No offense meant in previous post.
your post triggered a memory-
Remember Natty Bumpo (The original 'hawkeye' - leatherstocking tales, last of the mohigans....... )

I'll always remember 'his' quote in one of the books - referring to overeating..... "I don't dig my grave with my teeth." Odd how that has stayed with me all these years.

Also well said Litespeed. No offense meant in previous post.
your post triggered a memory-
Remember Natty Bumpo (The original 'hawkeye' - leatherstocking tales, last of the mohigans....... )

I'll always remember 'his' quote in one of the books - referring to overeating..... "I don't dig my grave with my teeth." Odd how that has stayed with me all these years. That's a great line, I'm surprised that has not been used in an ad for a health related business.

I would treat every day as a gift...

Sometimes, it's very easy to let that thought slip away. I need to bring it back to the surface as a reminder that when I was on a gurney in intensive care and I just hoped to heaven that the HR monitor didn't flat line because my heart had stopped beating... that life from then on really is a precious bonus.

Denver Fox,

What do you mine "Likely your time will com?" Hell, it's not likely, it's inevitable. Hope I get in a nice ride on that last day. If not, I hope I got in a nice ride the last day I was humanly able.

Whenever it is, I won't be saying "I wish I had worked more and not have ridden my Peugeot so much."

Tyson

Denver Fox,

What do you mine "Likely your time will com?" Hell, it's not likely, it's inevitable. Hope I get in a nice ride on that last day. If not, I hope I got in a nice ride the last day I was humanly able.

Whenever it is, I won't be saying "I wish I had worked more and not have ridden my Peugeot so much."

Tyson

Some of us will exit easily. Most of us won't. That was my point.