Most people that retire are excited with the thought that they don’t have to continue doing their job. They are happy that it is over. Musicians do not carry the same feeling. Retiring from playing music is the last thing they want.

There is something else that is involved here, it is what Gary has shared with us -- the decline in health and the ability to do what we always have done. Most of us hide this part of the equations. Dave talked about this I a kind way, I feel both issues must be looked at, they are attached.

I have learned to accept age and loss of ability; it was not an easy task. I fought with all that I have. During this period, I silently bought and sold more keyboards than I than any other period in my life. I needed he next new model, or I have to add more interesting songs, the list was long. The reality came when I realized that I was preparing for a possible job, which I knew I could no longer do. I had the instrument and the knowledge, but not the energy, nor did my hands perform as they did.

The good part:
Since I accepted my reality the search is over. I have a Sx900 which I am thoroughly enjoying. AND it is NOT being set up to play a job; it is being set up with the same love of music I had at the beginning, the reason I bought my first keyboard, to play the music I loved.

I had no choice. It was either chasing after something that could not have or accepting the reality.

I am happy, I love people, my wife and I are in a great place, and I play my keyboard every day. Life is good now!
John C.