The Columbus Dispatch

Person seeking unconditio­nal love should consider a pet

- JEANNE PHILLIPS — Hopeless in Missouri — Trying To Help in the West Write to Dear Abby at Universal Press Syndicate, in care of The Columbus Dispatch, P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069; for a reply, enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Or visit

Dear Abby: I am a 70-yearold male former teacher and social worker. I stopped dating 30 years ago because the only women I had loved had all dumped me.

Since then, I haven’t been romantical­ly involved with anyone. However, I am lonely for female companions­hip and afraid I’ll die without ever having had another girlfriend.

I’m not attracted to women my age, and I don’t see younger women being attracted to an overweight old guy who is barely scraping by on Social Security. Dating services don’t screen their members. Is there a solution for my problem?

Dear Hopeless: I’m sorry women in your age range don’t qualify, because it would be easier for you if they did. To be appreciate­d for the person you are, you will have to meet through mutual friends, church or an activity you enjoy — something that will allow women to see your strengths.

However, if that doesn’t open some doors and some hearts, because you’re looking for unconditio­nal love, consider adopting a puppy.

Dear Abby: My middlescho­oler noticed that the family of one of her classmates is struggling financiall­y. The boy wears eyeglasses with a crooked frame and one missing lens. His clothing and shoes are shabby and worn.

Not knowing the student or his family, I know my options are limited. They rely on public transporta­tion, and the other students don’t know where they live.

Education is paramount to getting out of this jam. Without something as simple as glasses, I’m afraid it can’t be done. Do you have any recommenda­tions on how to help get this student a pair? Since I don’t know the family, how do I even offer a ride to an optometris­t’s without fear of being labeled a kidnapper?

Dear Trying To Help: A diplomatic way to handle it would be to discuss this with your daughter’s teacher or the school principal. I agree that a child who can’t see the blackboard has little chance of academic success. If you would like to provide transporta­tion or pay for glasses for the boy, speaking with school staff would be the path with the least potential for embarrassm­ent.

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