How To Enjoy Early Retirement

Saint Francis de Sales (1567-1622) led a full life, both before and after his relatively late decision to join the priesthood. In his era, a life of holiness was considered the domain of monks and nuns, certainly not of laypeople. But he believed God could and should be found in everyday life and was one of the first great religious teachers to offer spiritual direction to lay Catholics living and working in the world, such as in his book Introduction to the Devout Life. His advice to those busy with the world’s affairs is as valid today as it was then: “Retire at various times into the solitude of your own heart, even while outwardly engaged in discussions or transactions with others, and talk to God.” Practice a little “early retirement” today!