This is a call for seniors to get off the golf course, to step away from the buffet, to get out of the curling rink, to skip the luxury cruise, to slip out of Tim Hortons, and to turn off the TV.  

The baby boomers are now retiring. Sadly baby boomers went from being the catalyst for change to being the most destructive and selfish generation perhaps in history.

Ideals of creating a better world turned into a nightmare of conspicuous and empty over consumption – the brand new golf clubs, the next vacation, and the new Cadillac. It is all about keeping up with the white haired Joneses these days.

What are you going to be remembered for? Shooting your age in golf? That packaged vacation tour that really was a colonial power trip of gluttony and emissions? Being a narcissistic voter? Regressing from a teenager to a small child? A society drop out?

I know you have worked your whole life and deserve a break. Life should be at a slower and more leisurely pace. There should be perks and fun. But have you given all you have to society and your community? Retiring does not mean retiring from responsibilities.

While you putter away on the golf course, in the house, and in the garden, there is a world out there that needs your help. Time is slipping away. You don’t have much time. Make the best out of it. Do something useful.

I know there are super seniors out there who are inspirational. These people are the real super heroes and should be lauded. There are many, many more that are not. You have the time, but you are wasting it.

Community groups, individuals, and associations need your help. You need them as much as they need you. Your time, knowledge, experience, and wisdom is invaluable. Pass it on. Meet new people, learn new things and find new meaning. Step out of your comfort circle of friends.

Ideals that got lost in the reality of family and work should be rekindled in your golden years. You are free to voice your real opinion again and to live in line with your convictions. Be the spark for change. Create a world that is brimming with community. A world that is generous and inclusive. A world that is green with sustainability.

Be the gift that keeps on giving rather than the one that ends up in the landfill. Get out of the rocker and rock the boat. Stop being a fossil fuel. Become the most valuable renewable resource.

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