DEAR ABBY: I am 80 years old and all alone. Cancer took my wife 11 years ago. I am still healthy and in control of my affairs. I have been trying to carry on without my wife, but there isn't much to live for. I just returned from putting my truck in the garage, and I hated coming back into my empty house.
I wish that every human being in the world could be as lonesome as I am tonight. If this were true, there would never be another war, or killing, or robbery, or any form of deceit. I feel certain that everyone would say, "I am satisfied with what I have, because I never want to be as sad or as lonesome as that old man." -- LONESOME IN TEXAS
DEAR LONESOME: I'm glad you wrote to me because 11 years is too long to be alone and grieving. Since you are of sound mind and body, it's time to re-enter society -- and by that I mean put yourself in situations where you can help your fellow man, meet new people and have some fun.
Volunteering is a wonderful way to start. Call your local hospital, library, museum or senior center, and see what openings are available. It will be a way to do something worthwhile for your community and the beginning of a new life for you. Trust me.