DEAR ABBY: This is in response to "Phil in Oregon," the man who wrote about his embarrassing habit. Please let him know there is nothing wrong with sucking your thumb!
I am a college-educated 23-year-old woman who has been sucking my thumb ever since I was one day old. I don't think Phil should be embarrassed about his habit. He should accept it.
Sucking your thumb is not bad. Some people, like myself, find thumb-sucking relaxing, especially before going to sleep. (It's better than drinking alcohol, or doing drugs to relax.)
My friends and even my boyfriend (who has been with me for over four years) all know of my thumb-sucking habit, and they don't mind. -- J.K.C. IN LONG ISLAND
DEAR J.K.C.: Phil will undoubtedly be grateful for your supportive letter. Although it's rarely publicized, I'm sure there are many adult thumb-suckers. Have you thought of starting a support group? (I can see it now: www.thumbsup!.org.)