DEAR ABBY: This is for the 26-year-old man who wants to marry the 32-year-old woman with a teen-age daughter:
My mother married my stepdad when she was 32. He was 24. I was 14 years old at the time.
I know about problems with disapproving families, and even racism. My mother's family and stepdad's family didn't want to acknowledge the wedding. Despite the opposition, my mom and stepdad have been married for 11 years. Because of the union, I have a little brother I couldn't love more. I also have a great stepdad who loves and respects my mother.
In a way, my stepdad and I grew up together. He's a friend as well as a dad, and he taught me that love and trust conquer all. -- N. BOMAGAT, RENO, NEV.
DEAR N. BOMAGAT: I'm certain the man who wrote will appreciate your supportive letter. Now it's up to him to decide if he's emotionally emancipated enough from his family to follow his heart. Let's hope he makes the right decision for all concerned.