DEAR ABBY: I have been divorced from my wife for almost a year, with another year of separation preceding that. We divorced because of arguments, not because of abuse, adultery or substance abuse issues. The divorce actually seemed to take on a life of its own.
Because I have a small son with her, I desperately want to attempt a reconciliation. She is reticent about it, however, mainly because I believe she's getting pressure from her family. How can I persuade her to go out with me so we can rekindle the spark we once shared? -- MISSING MY OLD LIFE
DEAR MISSING: Before a couple can successfully reconcile, they must first resolve the problems that caused the separation in the first place. That would be the way to begin. However, are you aware that not once in your letter did you say that you still love your ex-wife? If the reason you want to "rekindle the spark" is that you miss being with your child and the comforts of being married -- but not her -- then I don't think you have much chance of success.