One of the joys of my work as an acupuncturist is listening to the stories patients tell. They are interesting because they are about the things that are important to you: Your family, work, volunteering, hobbies, and, of course, your health. Our first interview features Jim Jamieson, who recently retired after serving 23 years as Willamette High School’s principal.
When you finished at Willamette High School, were you tempted to hang up a “Gone Fishing” sign? Not at all. Even at age 63, I feel young in many ways. I have tried to keep healthy through good nutrition and various kinds of exercise from aerobics to targeted weight lifting to Centergy to Pilates. I also look for a variety of treatment options beyond traditional medicine when I have physical difficulties. Probably being around teens for 40 years kept me thinking of ways to make a contribution. Now I have the time to work as I want.
What have you been doing since your retirement? My main work is as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) with the Lane County Juvenile Court. I work as a volunteer advocate for abused and neglected children. I also work with graduate students at the U of O and with an educational auditing non-profit in Salem. I love to cook and have enough time for doing that now.
Why is this work important to you? There are so many needs that others have. I get fulfillment from seeing others be helped and succeed.
What do you do to manage stress and stay well? Workouts help. Connecting with my wife through daily walks is crucial. I laugh and try to make others laugh, with me or at me, whichever works.
What advice would you offer to people who are still in the midst of busy–and stressful–careers? Take some time for yourself and those you love. Laugh. Find joy in some simple things. Avoid frustrations outside of work. Be the change you want to see in the world. Take care of your family and those you love.
You used acupuncture for a number of things over the years. What has been its main benefit to you? I believe acupuncture helps my body heal itself and return to a balanced state. I know it has helped me avoid surgery on several occasions. I feel at peace after each session.
