Bon Appetit or Indigestion As We Age?
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Photo Source: Current.org
Having just returned from a showing of the new movie about Julie Child, several things struck me. First, I had no idea that she worked so tirelessly and persistently in order to publish her magnum opus entitled Mastering the Art of French Cooking. Second, I hadn't realized that she was a late bloomer and in fact started her culinary career with zest after 50. Third, if the movie is true to life, she seemed to enjoy a happy relationship with her diplomat spouse.
Being of a certain age other than 21, stories of late bloomers are certainly inspiring and not a moment too soon. According to "Pension age 'could rise further'" (August 8, 2009), the BBC reports that UK pensioners may soon be forced to postpone retirement until age 68. David Norgrove, chair of the Pensions Regulator, thinks that number will eventually be exceeded.
I don't think this news is surprising one bit. Longer lifespans around the world leave governments little choice. After all, at a certain point, you can only tax citizens (those who are working) 100% of what they earn in order to support everyone else.
Mark my words. We are going to be working until very late in life and no doubt be giving up much more of our disposable income to finance retirement.
Julia Child is a good example of working late in life and having fun at the same time. As for the rest of us, saving can't start soon enough for our "second lifetime." Let's hope our meal is a culinary delight and not crackers and beans.
