If 'retirement' means retreat and rest, that term does not exist in my dictionary. A person needs to learn and work till frailty strikes, otherwise he does not lead a meaningful life. As one ages, his role and responsibility changes accordingly, with lesser famililial burden and social / financial constraints. He regains his soverignty, independence, and liberation. This is the golden happy period of one's life, and he will be happier still when he can make best use of the ample time now available to accomplish his earlier aspirations, interests and dreams, together with other like-minded individuals.