Divorcee is reluctant to talk about marriage

Dear Abby: When I was 18, I married someone who, at the time, I loved very much. It happened sort of spur of the moment. Not even six months into the marriage, he cheated on me.

I am now 20, divorced and inally feel ready to move on. But how do I go about dating at my age being a divorcee? I don’t know how to talk about it. I have friends who don’t even know I was married. How should I handle it? — Divorcee in Illinois

Dear Divorcee: Unless you are planning to meet men on a dating site that requires you to disclose that information as part of your pro ile, I see no reason why you have to mention it. If you are asked, however, be honest about your status. All you need to say is that you married, very briefly, at the age of 18, and it didn’t work out because you were both too young. It’s the truth.

Dear Abby: Iama 39-year-old female, and I want to know more about my ancestors so I can tell stories about them to my kids. The thing is, my boyfriend doesn’t like the idea, and anytime I say or do something, he criticizes me about it. He’s also very controlling. He feels it’s his way or the highway. That’s why I want out — for the sake of my life and the kids. I have no money and nowhere to go. What should I do? — Crying in Western Washington

Dear Crying: I agree the situation you describe isn’t healthy for you or the children. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline (thehotline.org or 800 7997233) for suggestions on how to disengage from your abuser (oops! I meant “boyfriend”) without any of you being harmed. Then ind a job so you won’t be penniless, and start saving your money.

Contact Dear Abby at www. DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.