DEAR ABBY: I hope you can help me with my problem. I talk to myself. I have always done this to some extent, just like my mother did, but I'm afraid it's getting worse since my husband died six months ago.
I live alone with my little dog, but I don't feel lonely. I like people very much and have no trouble visiting with them when the opportunity presents itself.
I am 73 years old. Is talking to yourself a sign of senility? Or am I losing my mind? I'm sure I do this in stores when shopping alone (not out loud, but my lips probably move), which is embarrassing. How serious is this? -- CHATTY CATHERINE, NASHVILLE, TENN.
DEAR CHATTY CATHERINE: I wouldn't consider this a serious problem. I'll wager most people have at least an occasional chat with their most constant companion -- themselves.
A widow once wrote, "I talk to myself whenever I feel the need for intelligent conversation."