As jobs go, emperor sounds like a pretty good gig. Admittedly, opportunities are limited: Japan is the only modern nation to have an emperor; the throne has been in the same family since 600 B.C.; and women need not apply, at least at the moment. But the emperor’s only duties under the constitution that was written after World War II by Japan’s American occupiers are to steer clear of politics and to serve as the living symbol of Japan and its people. Who would not cherish being the head of state and a beloved national figure under those circumstances?

Still, it’s hard not to sympathize with current Emperor Akihito, who, at age 82 and in light of previous health problems and a fear of declining powers, worries about his continued ability to carry out his ceremonial duties, in the performance of which he has proved an exemplar during his 28 years on the Crysanthemum Throne. The emperor’s apparent desire to retire came to light earlier this month when he addressed the nation on television. Perhaps typically, the allusion to retirement was oblique and understated, but unmistakable: “It was some years ago, after my two surgeries, that I began to feel a decline in my fitness level because of my advancing age and I started to think about the pending future. … Fortunately I am now in good health. However, when I consider that my fitness level is gradually declining, I am worried that it may become difficult for me to carry out my duties as the symbol of the state with my whole being as I have done until now,” he said. 

Retirement, however, is not so simple for what Bernie Sanders might call the emperor class. It hasn’t happened for 200 years in Japan, and apparently an act of parliament would be required to permit it. Even though polls suggest that 85 percent of the Japanese people are all for letting Emperor Akihito enjoy his golden years, political considerations may make abdication in favor of Crown Prince Naruhito a little dicey. For one thing, Emperor Akihito has been a committed pacifist under the Japanese constitution (as is the crown prince). But the current government is said to want to give the military a freer hand, and, The New York Times reports, some observers fear that the crown prince would be less of a restraining influence if he ascends the throne.

Political considerations aside, the emperor’s example is one that should resonate with others who hold offices that come with lifetime tenure. He appears genuinely and appropriately concerned that clinging to his job while in mental and physical decline would do harm to the nation. Notably, Pope Benedict made a similar decision in retiring for health reasons three years ago, becoming the first pope in 600 years to resign. In America, Supreme Court justices sometimes hang on to office well into old age, although it must be said that there’s little evidence that their mental acuity is diminished when they do. But the point is that it could happen and becomes more likely at an advanced age.

In any case, we hope Emperor Akihito is allowed to enjoy what was once referred to in England as “a little space between business and the grave.” Everybody deserves that, from emperors on down.