Russ, in my case, I worked in Cardio-Pulmonary Medicine for one of the most prestigious hospitals in the world, The Johns Hopkins Hospital. I loved what I did, but I eventually burned out when I had to take care of pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis, most of which died at a very young age. I walked away from medicine in 1975 and never looked back.

I've done lots of things since then, but the best job I've ever had was music. Yes, it's a job, and it's a full-time business venture as well. At least it is when you depend upon it for a living income. As a good friend of mine said this morning, he too will soon be retiring from music and it has been one Hell of a ride. And, as I told him, if I had to live this life again, I'm not really sure if I would want to change anything, other than exposing myself to asbestos in the Navy. Granted, like anyone's life, it has been somewhat of a roller coaster, but it sure has been a fun ride and there's really not much that I have not done, or accomplished in all these years. And, I've done some crazy $hit!

One of the primary reasons I decided that 75 was the likely cutoff point for me is health issues. My lungs are shot to Hell, some body parts no longer function as they should, and I hope to spend more time doing things with my wife. During the past 52 years, we really have not spent as much time doing things together, which is primarily my fault. This will soon change with retirement. At least I hope it will.

Cheers,

Gary