No Return Flight Ticket

“Are you going through a midlife crisis?” a dear acquaintance wanted to know. It would be nice if that were the case: I would then have to live to be over 140 years old, which, despite all optimism, seems rather unlikely. The reason for the ironically phrased question was my travel plans, which I gradually let slip among friends and family: I wanted to travel, but properly. Although theoretically retired for almost seven years, I continued to work full-time and was stuck in the old routine. I finally wanted to break free from that, and I couldn't do it if I stayed in Switzerland.

Embarking on this journey meant shedding weight. What does a person living alone need with an 80-square-meter apartment, 4500 books, two tables with eleven chairs, two sofas, a dozen tailored suits that he hardly wears anymore, countless, really countless shirts, and approximately one hundred ties that he will never wear again? The answer: He doesn’t need them. Instead, they weigh on his back like an overweight backpack that he can’t throw off.

Consistent Decision

The solution ultimately emerged consistently: The apartment in a nice, boring neighborhood of the Swiss capital Bern was canceled. The daughters, friends, and acquaintances could take whatever they desired: furniture, paintings, books. The wine cellar was sold. What remained and had no emotional value was disposed of. A small remainder of the most important books, pictures, photo albums, and clothes are now in storage. The first act of liberation has succeeded.

Gradually, friends began to say goodbye. Some were concerned that an old codger like me was diving into such an adventure. “The medical care down there isn’t as good as it is here.” Of course, I'm aware of that. I have taken out the appropriate insurance, but I am aware of my mortality; something unforeseen can always happen at my age. Others were jealous because they are either still tied up in work processes or, if they are already of retirement age, dare not take the leap. And then there were those who simply found the decision ludicrous.