I don’t usually post about my birthdays; there have been so many, but this one seemed different. I had a philosophical reflection on the significance of turning this age & what was in store for the future. So, I decided to share my “Birthday thoughts” on where I am in my life cycle.

Now, at 76 years young in February 2026, a septuagenarian Aquarian, I had a philosophical reflection about happily stepping into the soft, golden light of life’s final quarter game. The period of time when the colors are deepest, and the shadows are most graceful. Metaphorically, I have been “maturing over the 75 years, and will now simply walk the orchard and enjoy the harvest”.

The next journey is with a heart at peace and a spirit ready – a time for reflection, legacy, and pursuing what truly matters, with a loving spouse by my side, without the distractions of earlier years. I am truly grateful for experiencing every sunrise on my diverse journey, which brought me to where I am today.

A new challenge recently, a diagnosis of an autoimmune disease, where my body is attacking its own skin. The prognosis, in addition to my PCa side effects, is currently impacting the quality of my retirement life. There is no cure for an autoimmune disease, only symptom management through risk-associated medication regimes. It appears life has presented me with yet another challenge (why now?) to hurdle.

My “76 trips” around the sun were not celebrated with any fanfare, only a 2-day road trip to Khon Kaen University Hospital for treatment review. A quiet, peaceful trip. While my “good Thai retirement life” didn’t anticipate these challenges, with a different rhythm and a positive move forward attitude, I am hopeful for improved health. Now I am anticipating my next instalment, taken one day at a time – over 2026, and beyond.

This is simply a poster of my thoughts about my birthday, in February 2026 – graphically designed comments above:

I saw this image comment about being a senior teenager, or a Seenager, and thought it humorous, and appropriate for explaining retirement life for me today.

The 7 golden rules for a peaceful life

This involves focusing on fostering internal calm by releasing past baggage, taking ownership of personal happiness, and limiting external pressures. Key principles include letting go of the past, avoiding comparisons, embracing patience, and maintaining a positive, lighthearted perspective. 

1. Make Peace with Your Past
Let go of past mistakes and grievances so they do not disturb your present or future.
2. Take Charge of Your Happiness
Understand that you are the only person responsible for your own joy; do not rely on others for it.
3. Stop Comparing Your Life
Do not compare your journey to others, as everyone is on a different path, and comparison steals joy.
4. Stop Overthinking
It is fine not to know all the answers immediately; peace comes from accepting uncertainty.
5. Time Heals Almost Everything
Give situations time to resolve; patience often solves problems that seem insurmountable.
6. Ignore What Others Think
What others think of you is none of your business; free yourself from the need for validation.
7. Smile and Let Go
You do not own all the problems in the world, so smile and keep perspective. 

These concepts are designed to reduce mental clutter and promote a more serene, contented existence. Here is to the last quarter-century journey.