DEAR HARRIETTE: I was talking with some friends the other day about the "good old days" and remembered a time in my early 20s when I was incredibly rude to a woman I worked with. I can't even believe how selfish I was back then. I am embarrassed to admit that I basically left her at a time when she really needed my help because I had something else to do. Now, as a mature woman, I have recalled this whole scenario and I am unsure as to what to do about it. I haven't been in touch with this woman for years. Nothing bad happened. We just went our separate ways. I'm wondering if I should look her up so that I can apologize for being so selfish back in the day. Should I pull the scab off of what may not even have been an old wound? As I recall, she and I stayed friends until she moved away. What should I do? -- Looking Back, Atlanta
DEAR LOOKING BACK: Given that your recollection tells you that you and this woman did not part on bad terms even though you behaved selfishly at least on that occasion, I do not recommend finding her and bringing that up. Let sleeping dogs lie, as the saying goes. Since you thought of this woman, however, you may want to find her just to reach out and see how she is doing. A friendly call from the past could be a lovely gesture on your part. Rather than dredging up old ills, create a new bond with her. Bring your more thoughtful, welcoming self and go for it.