DEAR ABBY: I'm in the process of writing my autobiography, which probably will be distributed to my family after my death. I'm wondering how much I should include and whether confession serves any purpose now, except my own need to confess.
I am respected and loved by my children, even though they probably know I wasn't an angel in my younger years.
During my marriage, I had an affair. I believe if I hadn't had the affair, I probably would have gotten a divorce. The man with whom I had the affair gave me the friendship, communication and understanding I didn't receive from my husband, but we didn't hurt anyone.
I know God has forgiven me and I have grown spiritually in many ways since that time. I would hope that by revealing this, I might pass on my belief that no matter how rotten we are, if we repent, God will forgive us and we can be a worthwhile person.
Should I reveal my past or not? -- INDECISIVE
DEAR INDECISIVE: With apologies to the author of "The Bridges of Madison County," I can see very little good that could come from disclosing to your children that you were an unfaithful wife whose husband behaved in a way that made her feel friendless, misunderstood and alone. If God has forgiven you, and you have forgiven yourself, keep your lips sealed, your pen capped, and take the secret with you to heaven.