Describe a phase in life that was difficult to say goodbye to.
By far and away the most difficult in the most challenging phase of my life that I had to call Time upon, was my teaching and educational career. That stretched from 1968 until January 2012.
I was 22 when I went to teachers’ college, and just short of 66 when I retired.
The emotions within me and my love of the job together with appreciation of people with whom I connected made this a hard choice – to retire is so final!
However, sense and sensibility had to prevail. I had to realise and accept that my physical energies were no longer as boundless as they used to be and that my mental acuity and work no longer appreciated my working for 18 hours a day at certain times, on tasks associated with my school.
It was wise for me to retire while I was at the top of my profession. I would have hated to begin declining on the job.
12 years on I look back on my career with fond memories and appreciation. Although I did not want to go, I’m glad I did.
EDUCATION, A LIFE FORCE 
I congratulate you and certainly many have appreciated you in this long career of yours. You are a real person, with your feet on the ground, who was able to accept reality and give space to young people. The important thing, in my opinion, is to set an example…You gave your all, with passion. I respect you and hope you rest and enjoy this new phase of life with serenity.