DEAR ABBY: How do your readers feel about the words "soul mate"? I never imagined those words would cross my mind until recently -- and I'm not talking about my spouse. Is it possible to feel someone is your soul mate without knowing the feelings are reciprocated?
There are many roadblocks in the way of a relationship with my soul mate -- but I know I'd have to wait another lifetime for the kind of relationship I feel could exist with this other person. Comments, Abby? -- PONDERING IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST
DEAR PONDERING: Merriam-Webster's Dictionary, 11th Edition, defines "soul mate" n. (1822) as "a person who strongly resembles another in attitudes or beliefs." The American Heritage Dictionary, Fourth Edition, defines soul mate as "one of two persons compatible with each other in disposition, point of view or sensitivity."
While you are pondering, please ponder this: When you married your spouse, I'm hoping you felt you had much in common and thought you could build a successful future together. If you have lost that connection, try to rebuild it before sacrificing your marriage because the grass looks greener somewhere else. And if the object of your preoccupation is not aware of your feelings, please don't destroy your marriage over what may be a one-way crush.