Retirement is often seen as a time to relax and take a break from the busy world of work. Many retirees spend their days watching TV or enjoying a leisurely lifestyle. However, for 72-year-old Derek Burwell, retirement has been anything but boring. In fact, he says it has been better than sitting and watching TV.
Born in a small town in England, Derek spent most of his life working in a factory. After dedicating over four decades to his job, Derek was looking forward to a well-deserved retirement. But little did he know, his retirement would lead him to find a new passion and purpose in life.
Derek’s story began when he stumbled upon a woodworking class at his local community center. He had always been interested in carpentry but never had the time to pursue it. With his newfound free time, he decided to sign up for the class and give it a try. Little did he know, this simple decision would change his life.
From the first moment he picked up a saw and a hammer, Derek was hooked. He found immense pleasure in working with his hands and creating something from scratch. What started as a simple hobby soon turned into a full-blown passion. Derek spent hours in his workshop, honing his skills and creating beautiful pieces of furniture. He says that working with wood has a therapeutic effect on him and keeps him active both physically and mentally.
But it wasn’t just about creating something tangible, Derek also found joy in the process of learning. He would often spend hours watching videos and reading books on different woodworking techniques. Derek says that there is always something new to learn and he enjoys the challenge of mastering a new skill. At the same time, it also keeps his mind sharp, something that is crucial for senior citizens.
Not only has woodworking kept Derek physically and mentally active, but it has also given him a new sense of purpose in retirement. He enjoys the satisfaction of completing a project and seeing the end result of his hard work. Moreover, he has found a way to give back to the community by gifting his creations to friends and family or donating them to local charities. Derek says that this sense of fulfillment and purpose is much more valuable than any paycheck he received during his working years.
When asked about the benefits of woodworking, Derek says that it is not just a hobby, but a way of life. There is a sense of calmness and tranquility that comes with working with wood. It requires patience, precision, and attention to detail, all of which are important qualities for a retiree like Derek. He also points out that woodworking has helped him stay physically fit as he works with heavy tools and materials, giving him a good workout while doing something he enjoys.
Derek’s love for woodworking has also brought him a sense of belonging. He has made new friends who share the same interest and they often get together to work on projects or exchange tips and techniques. Derek says that this camaraderie and sense of community is something he never expected to find in retirement.
As for the financial aspect, Derek says that he is not in it for the money. While he does sell some of his pieces, he does not make a profit out of it. He sees it as a way to cover the cost of materials and continue pursuing his passion. He says that it is a small price to pay for the joy and fulfillment he gets from woodworking.
In a world where retirees are often seen as inactive and unproductive, Derek’s story is an inspiration. He shows that retirement can be a time to discover new passions and stay physically and mentally active. His love for woodworking has given him a purpose, a sense of fulfillment, and a new community of like-minded individuals. Derek proves that retirement is not the end, but a new beginning.
So, the next time you find yourself sitting and watching TV, remember Derek Burwell’s story. Instead of spending your retirement passively, why not find a new hobby or interest that keeps you busy and brings joy and fulfillment to your life. As Derek says, it’s better than sitting and watching TV.
