Comments on: Retire? Not In This Lifetime

By: Graeme

Graeme — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 23:02:20 +0000

‘Wow’ used above is so appropriate. I have known Pippa since the 70′s. Her determination, intelligence, cheerfulness and strength of character all combine to deliver a great quality outlook on life.

By: Corrina

Corrina — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 08:49:14 +0000

@Krista – “The world should be ruled by women after menopause” – I would LOVE to see that world. Perhaps in some ways it already is, from the wisdom that grandmothers and other elder women pass down to us, the stories you share with us about the past and what’s possible for our future. In Transition Town initiatives, which both Pippa and I are involved with, there is the principle of ‘Honouring Our Elders’ which is largely about them sharing with the younger generations their wisdom about how to live in a world less dependent on fossil fuels. Are you involved with one local to you? I’m sure your presence would be hugely valuable to them.

@Bazza – I’d love to know how old you are now… (i.e. whether 60 is a far-off dream or a close and exciting soon-to-be-reality)

@Pippa – Thanks so much for joining us here, and of course for being featured originally. You clearly have inspired people. My mum did her degree with four children at home and that was a great message for me as a teenager – that these decisions I was making about what A Levels to take and what university to go to were not the end of the world decisions. You can take a different path at any point in life – as you say, be prepared to be amazed by what is possible. Thank you (and thank you, Mum!)

@Kim – Thank you for joining this discussion. Crossroads can be intimidating to some people, and enthralling to others. I wish you joy with yours, and with your decision about doing a Masters. I love your ‘There are so many obstacles in my way… AND…’ There’s that great saying: “No-one said it would be easy. They said it would be worth it”. Here’s to you doing what your heart leads you to do, obstacles and all.

@Janice – You clearly have such a thirst for growth and development and my guess is that keeping fit and active physically is helping enhance that mental agility and vitality. How exciting about your degree and all that comes after – I shall continue to watch your journey with a smile and with all good wishes for you and those you serve.

@Catie – Love it! There are simply no rule books about what we’re meant to be doing at what age. There’s that other great quote, “How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you were?” You are so beautifully young at heart, so wonderfully wise, and such an inspiration of a powerful woman. Thank you for being here.
.-= Corrina´s last blog ..Give It A Rest =-.

By: Corrina

Corrina — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 08:35:37 +0000

@Laura – And I’ve seen many people on those courses who feel uncomfortable that they’re ‘too old’ to be there and have too much experience! It seems that age is one of those convenient excuses that our gremilns/saboteurs/inner guardians grab hold of and use to ensure we don’t do what we really want to do. Congratulations to you for being there anyway – I know you’ll be bringing a lot of fantastic energy to that group.

@Denise – My great-aunt never retired, she was still writing books in her 80s and being very involved with various organisations (she was the first female high-court judge in this country, a true inspiration). Like you, I can’t see myself wanting to retire because for me work is a pleasure that I get to do, rather than something I’ve got to do.

@Rosanna – I have absolutely no doubt that you’d be running through parks at age 80 – and beyond! Great point about making every day count, no matter how old we are. We never know how long we have left.

@Sue- I love the energy behind your comment. Perhaps you won’t be treading lightly on the earth, you’ll be climbing and running lightly on the earth Great to have you part of this discussion.

@Terry – Interesting point about mirrors – being seen by the ‘other’, rather than from within ourselves. I see photos of me with my ever-increasing number of silver hairs and think “Hmm… should I dye that?” and then when I feel that silver part of me from within, it just feels wise and wonderful. Why would I dye that away?!
.-= Corrina´s last blog ..Give It A Rest =-.

By: Catie

Catie — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:40:18 +0000

I didn’t write this, but it’s good:
Age is just a question of mind over matter.
If you don’t mind how old you are, then it doesn’t matter!

By: Janice Robertson

Janice Robertson — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 10:54:35 +0000

What a great inspiration Pippa is and proof that 59 is the new 39! And just to pick up on a point Terry said about still feeling the same at aged 52 as when he was younger. I feel like that as well. I’m 53 and very fit and active and while there may be a few more wrinkles, inside I don’t feel that I am anywhere near retirement.

In fact I am just about to start a degree course in Psychology with the intention of becoming a chartered psychologist and therapist. I even have a few more courses I want to do after that!

I think your alternative Christmas present is a great idea Corrina. I find that growing as a person and learning something new keeps you young!
.-= Janice Robertson´s last blog ..Alone At Christmas – 10 Tips to Survive (and even enjoy) Being Alone At Christmas =-.

By: Kim Leys

Kim Leys — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 09:45:45 +0000

Hi Pippa
So strange how synchronicity works as I am nearing a crossroad in my life…I am thinking of going back to uni to do a masters at 50…. while my boy is at school for the last three years………many obstacles are in my way……..and I just need to keep trusting! Then I read about you Pippa and I am inspired to tackle the next obstacle, climb that next mountain. Thank you for sharing your wonderful story. I am intrigued with watching shared gifts grow; and how easy it is to access this law of the universe.
As I get older I am increasingly humbled by the extraordinary power of women. Particularly those who manage to bring up children (which is a huge contribution in itself) and still have the energy to go further, to expand their horizons and share their gifts of love beyond any comfort zones. We are truly blessed with this inherent gift of love but when we are able to share it and allow it to grow, that surely is the true essence of awakening consciousness.
With Love
Kim xx
ps I would love to read your account of Tibet if you find it

By: Pippa

Pippa — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 23:27:46 +0000

It’s so empowering to hear what sharing even a little bit about me in this way means to others. Thank you.

A friend of my sister’s, Kim, read the blog and wrote: ‘So strange how synchronicity works – as I am nearing a huge crossroad in my life I really need to hear stories like that… I am thinking of going back to uni to do a masters in Ayurvedic Medicine… studying while my boy is still at school for the last three years… many obstacles are in my way… and I just need to keep trusting! Then I read about your sister and I am inspired to tackle the next obstacle.’

Kim, I did a first degree while my two daughters were at primary school. It was tough because I’m a perfectionist, and I had to take a year out, exhausted, after writing my dissertation before I could take my finals, but I did it, and got a 2.1 Hons… which felt like an absolute a triumph, and still does.

Bless you, and speed you on your journey… prepare to amaze yourself with what’s possible!

By: bazza

bazza — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 18:35:17 +0000

fantastic – really inspiring.

I’m looking forward to being 60 now…

By: Krista Braun

Krista Braun — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:20:44 +0000

Having passed the 58 year mark quite some years ago, and having observed and met women after menopause, I can say only: This is the greatest time of your life. The world should be ruled by women after menopause. The real things, the world changing things come into close perspective, overview is the new gift and to see the essence of matters. What ever you want to do now, do it. You have the power, although you may not know it

By: Catie

Catie — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 22:58:24 +0000

Love it! Very inspirational – thank you!