DEAR ABBY: I am a 48-year-old divorced man who has been dating a divorcee for five years. Last night I asked her to marry me, only to be told she was not ready and afraid of being hurt again.
Should I stay in this relationship, or stop seeing her and try to start another relationship? I'm afraid that staying in this one much longer will prevent me from finding someone else who would marry me. -- REJECTED AND DEJECTED IN OHIO
DEAR DEJECTED: After five years of dating, the lady should have some idea of how trustworthy you are. Because she's gun-shy, offer to go with her to some counseling sessions in order to allay her fears. If she's willing, continue the relationship a little longer. If she's not, then your instincts are correct, and it's time to move on.