I have been fortunate to have many close friends in my life. Some have been with me almost my entire life and some seem to orbit in and then out again with no explanation.

One of the joys of retirement outside my home country is that the people you meet are from all different walks of life. Back when I was working it seemed most of my friends came from work, my neighborhood, or those I had known since childhood. In retirement it is all just one big mix.

I have friends who have lived and worked in incredibly interesting places. They tell so many fascinating stories – I love learning about their experiences. I have friends who packed up young kids and went to China and Eastern Europe. Others moved to remote locations off grid. Friends have worked fishing in Alaska, as teachers and librarians and as summer tree planters. I love hearing about their interesting lives.

I asked a friend how she had such excellent Spanish and she told me of coming to Mexico for a month in high school and having her life changed by it. What a story! I also learned so much about her incredible strength and determination.

Some people have multiple advanced degrees and some have none. Some went to college or changed careers later in life. There is so little judgement about these differences, it is wonderful. It usually takes a while to even find out what a new friend did for work, and often it is a real surprise.

The regrets I hear are usually around having been too timid. Most of us find that we are more adventurous in retirement, and thankfully we can indulge ourselves and explore and do more things that challenge our norms.

The retirees here span a variety of economic levels. Some have cars and live in gated compounds and some live in simple rented accommodation and walk everywhere. And bicycles! With our relatively new bike path (that the naysayers said no one would use) there are lots of people that rely on bicycles – both electric and regular- for all their local transportation. I love the mix of people and their choices, it makes for a very interesting life.

So many friends are talented artists and musicians, and again there is a spectrum. Some have supported themselves with their art all along and others have become more creative in retirement. Either way there are usually many talented people in any group and lots of classes, art openings, concerts and exhibits to choose from.

Many choose to volunteer as part of their retirement workday. There are so many places that need help – from the recycling center, to orphanages, student support, community groups, women’s shelters, etc. Hearing stories from friends has been really illuminating. Since moving to Mexico, some have set up a girls’ home, hospice, a boy’s orphanage, a community weekly meal, an animal rescue, a community center, a sewing group, and a school. What amazing people!

I wonder what retirement will be like in the future. Will people still come to Mexico for adventure in their golden years? No one knows what US/Mexico relations will be like in the future and whether crossing borders will still be a thing. I know I am luckier than most – to have been born in the 50’s in the US where my working years set me up for a peaceful retirement here in Mexico.

Photo at the top – Coco and Rosy