DR. WALLACE: I'm 20 years old and serving hard time behind bars. I graduated with honors from high school two years ago and had plans to attend the University of California at Irvine, but because of drugs and the crime I used to get them, I got into deep trouble. I will be released in less than two months. I feel terrible that my life is all messed up and for the hurt I caused my mother and dad.

My problem is that I feel very guilty for my past behavior, and I don't know if I can cope with this guilt after I'm released. I know my parents love me, but I'm sure they are not proud of me now, and I'm not sure if they will ever be proud of me. Any advice will be appreciated. I'll be living in Fullerton, Calif., with my parents until I decide what my future will bring. — Nameless, Chino, Calif.

NAMELESS: Once you are released, you will have paid your debt to society, but it will take longer for you to forgive yourself. You made a serious mistake that cost you dearly and hurt those who loved and respected you. The remorse you have comes through powerfully in your letter, and I'm confident you will positively restructure your life and become a useful, law-abiding citizen.

Many people find hope and peace in the religion of their choice. The Almighty is loving and forgiving. Your parents are loving and forgiving and, in time, you will learn to forgive yourself.

Start making plans for your future today. I strongly encourage you to contact Fullerton Community College and plan on attending this excellent school. The tuition is low and you can attend full time or part time.

You have a bright future ahead of you. Please write to me again once you have been released. I care about you and will do what I can to help you reach your goals.

ABSENCE MAKES THE HEART GROW FONDER

DR. WALLACE: I'm dating Zeke and I like him a lot. Before Zeke, I was dating Alan, but he and his family moved out of our area three months ago. Even though I like Zeke, I still have this thing for Alan, although I might never see him again. Does this mean that subconsciously I'm waiting for Alan to return to me, even though I doubt this would happen? — Nameless, Klamath Falls, Ore.

NAMELESS: All this means is that absence makes the heart grow fonder. Relax, don't worry about it. There's nothing sinister in harboring fond feelings for an ex, especially since you didn't end the relationship in bitterness. Zeke is the guy you're with now, and since you like him a lot, thoughts about Alan will gradually lessen in intensity.

Dr. Robert Wallace welcomes questions from readers. Although he is unable to reply to all of them individually, he will answer as many as possible in this column. E-mail him at [email protected]. To find out more about Dr. Robert Wallace and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.