Hobbies
page
'get
off yer butt and do something' "Retirement"
One time you're getting up every day to go to work. Then suddenly you're retired,
maybe unwillingly, with loads of time on your hands. The change of circumstance
can be unsettling, not only to yourself but also to your family. The days stretch
out unendingly before you- nothing to do and all day to do it in; that's when
you need a hobby (or hobbies). "What
is a hobby?"
My broad definition of a hobby is something
that is done to pass time in a profitable manner. It may well be profitable in
the monetary sense or it may give a sense of achievement. If you're lucky it may
give both. "Charities"
Charities such as Age Concern are always short of volunteers and you are sure
to be welcomed. Forget the image of well-meaning people doddering about; modern
charities are run on sound business lines and can be fun. It'll get you out, part
of a team, looking forward to the challenge. I speak from experience as one who
was beginning to lose confidence. Charities
are a life-saver, not only for the people they help but also for the helpers.
If you have any skills, and who hasn't?, they can be put to work. If you can do
office work; answer the telephone, work a copier, do some filing, you'll be invaluable.
Car owners are always in demand to ferry people about or if you can do simple
repairs you'll be in great demand. What's more, you'll be part of a team. If you
think that working for a charity might be for you, don't jump in with both feet
straight away but treat it as looking for a job. Visit local charities that interest
you, chat with the people there and find out as much as you can, then go for it.
"Institutions"
Similarly to charities, many institutions such as hospices, hospitals and schools
are always short of willing hands. You may have come into contact with one or
more of these personally or through a family member or friend. In general hospices
and hospitals need volunteers to help with distribution of food and reading matter,
arrange flowers and generally help with the social side of things. This allows
nurses more time to concentrate on using their medical skills. Despite what you
may think, hospices are usually places full of joy and hope. If
you have grandchildren, why not lend a hand at their school?. There's always need
for people to lend a hand in a multitude of ways; manning a stall at the school
fair, for example or even helping to organise it. Many schools have dispensed
with the old PTA in favour of a "Friends of..." which allows people other than
just parents to join. Helping to make scenery for a play is also a fun thing.
"Don't
be fright"
Do you remember this catchphrase? It's from a half-remembered
radio show of around the war years, but it expresses what I'm trying to say. You
may feel diffident about taking on the responsibility of voluntary work as is
outlined above, but go for it and you'll never regret it. You'll mostly meet some
very nice people but also a few that are boring, self-opinionated or downright
rude; that's all part of life's rich tapestry. If the worst comes to the worst
you can always leave and try something else, but for the most part, once you become
part of a team, you won't want to. "Take
a course at your local college"
What in? Anything that takes
your fancy; most colleges have concessions on fees for older people. Unless you
have a special interest why not try something off-beat such as self-assertion
or painting on silk. It's all good fun, you get out and you meet people. "Visit
your local leisure centre"
There you can get a swim, have
a workout in the gym, play badminton or bowls. Most leisure centres run courses
in several sports where you will meet like-minded people, with maybe a coffee
or as drink afterwards. "Support
your local societies"
All localities have a wealth of societies
and clubs offering all manner of skills. There are operatic and drama societies,
brass band, dance band, jazz, organ, dancing schools, model trains, art, photographic
etc.etc. Many of these societies need financial help. Although the members pay
subscriptions this is not always sufficient to cover costs. Also, having worked
hard to achieve good results they need to display their talents. Even if you don't
want to join a club yourself, please support these people. I know you'll enjoy
their offerings.
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