Michael: “When I retired, I thought I would finally enjoy peace. But the quiet quickly became loneliness. My children had their own families, and I found myself filling time with fishing trips and news articles  never with real conversation. I realized I didn’t just want to pass the time. I wanted to share my life again.”

Fiona: “I felt something similar in Beijing. I had worked for years as an accountant, raised my children, and suddenly the house was too quiet. My life was stable, but it wasn’t alive. I wanted someone who could make me laugh and remind me that it’s never too late for love.”

That’s when both joined WUMA Match. They were unsure if it would work at their age, but soon discovered a natural connection. Michael admired Fiona’s warmth and humor; Fiona loved Michael’s patience and sincerity. Their chats ranged from deep talks about family to lighthearted exchanges filled with emojis. “Even when words were difficult,” Fiona smiles, “we always understood each other.”

Months later, Fiona visited California. Together they explored the Pacific Coast, stopped to watch the ocean waves, and shared simple moments in Michael’s garden. “I saw how he cared for his roses and lavender,” Fiona recalls. “It showed me the kind of person he is.”

Michael adds: “When we sat by the beach, laughing over nothing in particular, it didn’t feel like retirement. It felt like the start of something new.”

Now, they are planning a trip to China ,Fiona is excited to walk with Michael through the hutongs where she grew up, while Michael is looking forward to finally standing on the Great Wall after hearing so many of her stories.

“What surprised us most,” they say, “is not just that we found love  but how much fun we have together. At this stage in life, laughter, companionship, and shared adventures are the greatest treasures.”

“Thank you, WUMA, for reminding us that joy doesn’t retire , it just begins again in a new way.”