It’s been a month since I Left a 28 year career with the company I dedicated much of my life to. After riding a roller coaster of emotions, I’ve come to terms with the change and have embraced retirement.

“Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.” — Seneca

As I mentioned in my last post, I initially saw three options—but I’ve since discovered more. I’ve decided to take a “gap summer” to reflect on my life, continue building relationships, and prepare for what’s next. This fall, I’ll begin working part-time as a (history) teacher, sharing my passion for the subject while also nurturing my hobbies: photography, writing, cycling and travel.

My wife and I with some friends, have an exciting trip planned to Egypt, Amman, and Jordan this fall, which will serve as a launching point for the next chapter of my life. While my departure came eight months earlier than expected and not on my terms, it’s turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

I’ve also rekindled a long-lost passion: cycling. I’ve completed a few short tours and plan on doing a 200-mile weekend ride planned through the Northwoods of Wisconsin.

This past month has given me the space to reflect deeply—on my contributions, relationships, decisions, and more. I’ve come to realize that much of my life was guided by what I believed to be the “right way.” I now see things differently and am shifting my focus to what truly matters. I am sad that it has taken me this long to figure this out.

“We do not learn from experience… we learn from reflecting on experience.” — John Dewey

Come along as I navigate this new path!