This feature is coordinated by The Post-Standard, Syracuse.com and InterFaith Works of CNY. Follow this theme and author posted Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday.

My mother retired at 72 because she was forced to do so by her company’s policies. She could not really afford to retire, but she had no choice. She entered retirement scared and feeling old, rejected and upset. But soon, she was heading up a fundraising campaign to install a new kitchen in her church, serving as the Tree Commissioner for her village, caring for grandchildren three days a week, and leading her women’s group in Bible study. She even sat and read novels in the little garden she had created in her backyard. When I asked how her retirement was going, she replied that she didn’t know how she used to have time for work! I loved that she embraced this change with such grace and service. May I do the same!

Beth A. Broadway is the president/CEO of InterFaith Works. She was recently named President Emerita of the organization, and will retire on October 31 after a 50-year career in human services, 25 of which were devoted to IFW.

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