When I retired from college teaching, I figured I would write the Great American Textbook, travel the world, and speak at conventions. Somehow that never worked out.
Recently, I had just left the house when my wife, Sharon, came running after me. “Danny! Come quick, there’s a bird in the house!”
Somehow a sparrow had flown inside the house and was frantically darting from window to window, seeking the sky. For a while, I chased him with a broom toward an open door but with no success. Then I had an idea. I closed the blinds on all windows and doors, except for the front door, which I left wide open. Sure enough, in just seconds the little aviator found his way out.
As I look back on my retirement, I can see that God quietly pulled the blinds on some things I thought were important back then. My Great American Textbook was crowded out by things like correspondence with former students, who needed the kind of help not found in books. Most of our travel has been short trips, which are actually more fun than sleeping on airport floors. Rarely do I speak at conventions, but almost every Sunday I help out in some little area church, where I feel truly needed and appreciated.
My retirement may lack drama, but it is permeated with peace and hums with happiness. Isn’t that what retirement is supposed to be all about?
I’m no eagle, Lord, just a sparrow, who is thankful for Your help in finding the right doors of service.
—Daniel Schantz
