This morning I met with Lonnie, who has been my personal trainer for more than fifteen years. The most important part of our time together is the half hour or so during which we simply sit and talk. He knows that I prefer to postpone the actual physical exercise.

“I have news,” he said.

“Yes?” I thought – this can’t be very good. At least for me.

“Carol and I have decided to move to North Carolina. We made the decision based upon something you said years ago.”

“What did I say?”

“It was right...