DEAR SUSAN: Here's the thing about older women with younger lovers: He's as much a predator as she is! He wants her to "teach" him what a younger woman probably couldn't. But then, when he's learned her sexual technique, he most likely will go on to marry someone more appropriate — a younger woman. So actually, the cougar is also being "used" and discarded. She borrows his youthful stamina for a while, but he is learning sex skills for use with a younger partner. — From the "Single File" blog

DEAR BLOGGER: Use and be used; the wheel goes round and round. Where it stops, no one can predict. But every once in a while, the wheel lands on a lucky spot, and then all sorts of good things can happen. Like an older woman and a younger man, at first out for a good time and sex education but then finding themselves in a tailspin, surprised by deep emotions never before felt. That kind of pairing makes great good sense because the female matures sexually around age 30 and the male at 18. And though good sex isn't enough to sustain a relationship for the long haul, the compatibility that develops between partners can at times lead to an overarching ease in other parts of their lives. When the sex is between friends, such an evolution is possible. A progression devoutly to be wished.

DEAR SUSAN: Wanted you to know I'm still old and single. Old isn't for sissies. Ditto single. A favorite saying of mine, sent your way years ago: "Romance without humor is like sex with dignity." (I still hope for sex with a gal who does her share of the wanting.) And actually, I've been getting more impromptu conversation with women at the store, senior center, coffeehouse, etc., lately. Why this happy happening? Believe it or not, a "Trump 2016" ball cap on my head. As my old uncle Melvin used to say, "one never knows, does one? And even when you know, you can never be sure." — From the "Single File" blog

DEAR BLOGGER: One thing's certain, friend: The light touch, a bit of humor showing you don't take yourself too seriously, is a good starting point. Where it leads from there is anyone's guess, but the point is that you've done your part; you've opened the door to further conversation — and possibilities. In this culture, that's not easily done. And the funny part? You had no idea when you put on the cap that you were opening doors to nice people and innocent banter. That, to me, is the most wonderful part — that this entire situation had no purpose behind it. You thought you were only putting on a cap. The rest is fun and neighborliness. This is an election year, a great time to meet good people who care about their government and are willing to make an effort to make changes. So many places will need manning — campaign storefronts, volunteer groups, phone banks, street corners where leaflets can be distributed. The only things necessary to become part of a campaign are energy and a willingness to work.

The best part of campaign work? Meeting people with a shared interest. The rest, as they say, is history. Make some today, dear readers — maybe with something as prepossessing as a ball cap. Go!

Have a question for Susan? You can reach her directly at [email protected].

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