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Mary, you made some good points, I am going to make some comments, from another point of view. I am blessed with basically good health, although I am feeling the normal effects of middle age (pushing 55 fast). I have a job I started in 1967, and it has always been a challenge, interesting, exciting, and a learning experience. I travel mostly around South Florida, repairing copiers, offset printing presses, and related equipment. I meet interesting people, get a nice company car (Dodge Caravan) a decent salary and many benefits, so I should be willing to work until age 65, and not complain, right? WELL, if I could retire tommorrow I would do it in a heartbeat! Here are the reasons: 1 I coud spend more time with friends and family, especially my father who will be 81 this month and has advanced PD. 2 I could enjoy my recently purchased house with a pool, spa, and may other amenities. I have never been in the pool yet! 3. I could pursue my hobbies, which have been on the back burner for a long time. 4 I could read the whole Parkinsns list in one sitting. 5 I could read the piles of newspapers and magazines and books, waiting for my attention. 6 I could see the latest movies BEFORE they become classics. 7 I could spend more time practicing my religion. 8 I could spend time helping charities that need volunteers. 9. I could at least see more of my own country, and maybe more of the world, without having to rush home to get back to work. 10 I could waste time without feeling guilty. 11 I could write a book. 12 I could help my son start a business, and if my daughter wants one, her too. 13, I could be a better husband, and do more things for and with my wife. So that's why I buy lotto tickets, try to buy the right stocks and funds, and spend my spare time dreaming of retirement. I hope I don't have to retire due to illness or infirmity, but would like to enjoy life as an observer, and let a younger person have my wonderful job, or an older one, if he/she wants it! [log in to unmask]