DEAR ABBY: I am 85 and dating a man, "Larry," who is 62. For the last 25 years we have become good platonic friends doing community charity and church volunteer work. During this time, I also took care of my husband, who was suffering from Alzheimer's for 12 years. Five years ago, my husband died, which left me totally alone. Two years ago, Larry, a lifelong bachelor, asked me out. We get along wonderfully and eventually fell in love.
I'm a young 85, and Larry is quiet and reserved. My problem is, I can't get over the age difference. I feel like everyone is judging us because of it, and we have never actually discussed it. Truthfully, I'm frightened to death of the subject.
We are both financially secure. We look the same age and are both Christians. We are involved with community activities and help charities meet financial goals, feed the poor, etc. We trust one another and have similar core values and integrity. So, Abby, please give me your advice. There isn't anyone I can ask who would be impartial. -- JUST A NUMBER? IN PENNSYLVANIA
DEAR 'JUST': I'm glad you asked. If you and Larry love each other and share similar values, you would have to be crazy to permit what "people might say" to destroy what you have together. You haven't said he has proposed marriage. If he does, more the better. No one has a contract with God. You are 85 years young. Please enjoy the years you have left to the fullest, and don't be ashamed of doing it.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.