I have often heard it said that the key to longevity is twofold:

1. Having a purpose in life--some place to be, some task to accomplish

2. And keeping a regular schedule--up at the same time, washed, dressed and on to the tasks at hand.

We have noticed at work those principles do seem to apply to retirees (we hired every warm body we could lay hands on at the end of the 70's and early 80's and they have now been retiring in substantial numbers). Those who retire to an active alternative fare better than those who retire to vegetate.

This week's experience has validated that perception for me. I have felt better physically and mentally since returning to my normal schedule, even though it's a demanding one. It's as though my body, used to getting up at 5 a.m. for decades, is saying, "Ah ha! I know this rhythm and can dance to it well."

Mid-afternoon naps (something I learned about in Europe and India) are still de rigueur, of course. With an afternoon "power nap" behind me, I can conquer the universe. Well, my own little corner of it, anyway.

OK, I'm ready for retirement, though it may never happen. Have a purpose to your life and maintain a regular schedule. I can do that.