The originating thread from @Unintentionally_Blank began with a problem I’d like to commiserate about…
I’ve recently discovered I’m joining you. The short version is that 2021 seriously pruned our family tree. And I (already retired in my 60s) was shown some statements with really big numbers and informed they’re now headed to me. This was unexpected, I didn’t really know about it (not much anyway), and I’m a little overwhelmed.
spoilered for length
I don’t like the reasons for this, and would gladly trade it to have all my family back. It’s a strange feeling, but at least I know with certainty how my heart feels about it. I’ve known people in my situation who I suspected were happy about the trade-off, and had wondered what my own reactions would be. There’s some comfort in knowing my values remain where they should.
But it’s still a strange feeling. And like the OP, part of me is at sea, wondering “what now?”. If I had known this future, I could have retired decades earlier – to sail around the world, or whatever grand event was in my bucket list. But now age and medical issues restrict me considerably – and I don’t want a Ferrari or a rocket ride. In addition, I will probably be assuming responsibility for a handicapped family member and need to ensure they’re well provided for, but not allowed to squander their portion (long story).
My real complaint is, except for my wife there is literally no one I can talk with about this. My few friends would react like Unintentionally_Blank predicts above, and although I’m keeping several bartenders in silk shirts, they hardly qualify as a sympathetic ear. I guess my real OPP is I’ve reached a point where deep discussions IRL are simply impossible. All conversations in the last few years are like the gun threads; all participants have predetermined answers, and are crouching behind figurative trebuchets awaiting an excuse to launch them. Lots of people to talk to but none who listen. I wonder how widespread this is among other oldsters.