Early Retirement: A Distorted Vision

Mr Mooney had a vision: if he could earn enough money to retire before 50, he would have plenty of time for his family, friends and social/religious work - Life would then be fulfilling and joyful. And so, he worked and worked... with absolutely no time for his family, friends and social/religious work.

One day, Mr Mooney earned enough money to last him many lifetimes and decided to retire. He went to his family but found that their hearts were far from him as he forgot how to love and be loved. He went to his friends but found that they were not interested in him. He went to church and voluntary groups but found that he could not contribute in any way.

Finally, Mr Mooney decided to do what he knew best: work. And so, he worked and worked... and eventually died as a rich but lonely, miserable and unloved man.

Do you also think retirement is the only way to have quality time with family, friends and social/religious work? I used to harbour such thoughts as well but I realised that life can be fulfilling and joyful at this very moment if we get our priorities right - retirement is just an excuse for us to put aside everything else for work...