Once upon a time, retirement meant sitting on a porch and rocking one’s final years away.

Retirement was often viewed as the end of one’s life, for all practical purposes, at least.

The theory being: He cannot do anything; he’s retired. Or, she’s not all that active any more; she’s retired.

Rarely now does retirement mean sitting idle while life’s clock ticks nearer to death — quite the opposite, in fact.

More and more of America’s retirees are leaving the workplace with disposable income as well as a drive to enjoy life for many years to come.

That’s why it’s always refreshing to hear of new retirees moving to our area.

Retirees in many ways are the perfect citizens, providing excellent economic benefits for the community. They don’t require anyone to provide them with a job opportunity, they cause virtually no pollution, and they usually have the time and interest in becoming involved in giving back to the community.

Luring more retirees to our area is truly a win-win for the community and the non-retired population.

We applaud the work of the Natchez Retiree Partnership and others who are working to promote the area’s benefits to retirees or soon-to-be retirees.

We’ve long said Natchez gives back as much as you put into it. Judging by the work of dozens of retirees who volunteer in the community, they give a great deal.

Natchez depends on the kindness, caring and hard work of such volunteers.

We hope additional retirees can be lured to the area with all of the great things we can offer. We’ll all benefit.