DEAR ABBY: I am a 45-year-old man. When I was in high school, I couldn't get a date. I'm not unattractive, and I wasn't even back then. But I was somewhat of a social outcast.
In recent years I have reconnected with several people I went to school with, and returned to my hometown for a short visit to show my kids where I grew up. Abby, I was overwhelmed with attention from women who wouldn't give me the time of day 25 years ago. I admit I like the change, but I'm uncomfortable that there has been such a dramatic shift in their view of me.
I'm not rich. I have a stable job, but haven't done much with my life other than leave the small rural town I was raised in. Now I am constantly contacted by women who used to never look in my direction, asking me if it's possible to become romantically involved.
Is this a case of the one that got away? Or is it a case of the grass is greener somewhere else, and I found a way to jump the fence? -- CONFOUNDED IN ALABAMA
DEAR CONFOUNDED: Perhaps neither. As people mature, their values usually mature along with them. Or, like fine wine, you may have improved with age.