I was probably in the best shape of any athlete at the time, but you don't get to pass judgment on yourself.
I am in the process of trying to decide whether I can make a substantive and productive contribution to the policy-making process. I was always there because I wanted to work on the pressing issues of the day - I'm interested in energy, I'm interested in the climate bill and technology policy.
In time your relatives will come to accept the idea that a career is as important to you as your family. Of course, in time the polar ice cap will melt.