DEAR ABBY: I was divorced last September and granted custody of my 3-year-old daughter. My husband and I separated soon after her birth.

While I was separated, I became friendly with an attractive co-worker I’ll call “Martin.” The attraction was mutual. Since I didn’t announce my separation to anyone at work, Martin was unaware of it. I figured that when my divorce was final, I’d let him know and let the chips fall where they may.

A month before the divorce was granted, Martin announced that he was taking a year’s sabbatical from work to enter the seminary to explore the possibility of becoming a Catholic priest. We have stayed in touch since his departure, but I still haven’t mentioned the divorce.

I’m lucky to have a good job, a close family and many good friends. I enjoy spending my free time with my daughter and despite numerous offers, I don’t feel the need to date. Still, I think about Martin all the time. Should I casually mention my divorce to him the next time we speak? Or should I wait to see if he chooses on his own to leave the seminary? I don’t want to confuse him. Please help. – CONFUSED IN NEW YORK

DEAR CONFUSED: I see no reason not to tell Martin the truth about your marital status. If his calling is so fragile and tenuous that he would deviate from his commitment to the church, then he doesn’t have what it takes to be a priest. Joining a religious order has many rewards – but it also requires obvious sacrifices.

It might help you to go on with your life once you understand what Martin wants to do with his. Please do not feel rejected if he chooses the priesthood. There’s no reason why you can’t remain friends.

DEAR ABBY: Last fall, I put a little “I love you” note in my husband, “Barry’s,” wallet (as I do from time to time), and was horrified to find a perfume-scented love note from one of his female co-workers.

When I confronted Barry, at first he denied the note was for him – then he eventually came clean. All he’d admit is that he kissed her – once.

Abby, I know him too well to believe that. When Barry was married to his former wife he had multiple affairs, but since we’ve been together he claims to be a “changed man.” Now I’m not so sure.

We both agreed to work on our relationship. Barry has since left his job and taken another. However, there’s still a real distance between us. We no longer share the same bed. I know he’s worried that I’m going to kick him out. I’m the primary wage-earner in our family and I know he can’t afford to live on his own.

I need guidance. I feel as though our marriage is over. I haven’t worn my wedding rings since Barry admitted to “the kiss” with that woman. Am I being too harsh? – WIFE OF A KISSER IN ABILENE, TEXAS

DEAR WIFE: Perhaps. After all, your husband did change jobs, which would put temptation at a distance.

I’ll chant the old mantra: marriage counseling. It will help you both decide if this marriage is worth saving – and if you can trust him not to fall back into his old habits.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Write Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

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