DEAR ABBY: I worked in an entertainment establishment for about 16 years. I finally grew tired of it. I knew I was not getting anywhere in life, so I decided to go back to school and pursue a career in law enforcement. I completed my courses recently, and would like to become a cop or a court officer.

My concern is, what if they find out about my career choice in the past? It could be personally embarrassing and might even cause me to lose my job. Should I come out and put on my resume what I did for 16 years of my life? – LATE BLOOMER IN CANADA

DEAR LATE BLOOMER: You appear to be an intelligent and forward-thinking woman. Please do not attempt to lie about your past. I cannot imagine any law enforcement agency that would not do a background check before hiring an applicant – and the truth would come out anyway. To my way of thinking, because of your background, you could be a unique asset to a police department. Let’s hope whoever’s hiring sees it my way.

P.S. Clip this item and include it with your job application. I hope it helps.

DEAR ABBY: My boyfriend, “Kenny,” and I broke up six months ago. Nothing bad happened; we were just at different points in our lives. I didn’t hear from Kenny until a couple of weeks ago, when I found a message from him on my answering machine. He said he was sorry for not being the best boyfriend he could be.

By then, I was already in love with another man, “Scott.” I agreed to meet Kenny for lunch to get closure, but the minute our eyes met, all the old feelings came rushing back. Now I don’t know what to do.

Kenny and Scott are both perfect men. They treat me with respect. I’m supposed to move in with Scott next month, but I don’t know if I want to be with him anymore. He is planning on moving three hours from home to attend a school that is closer to me. I tried to end the relationship with Scott, but he was devastated. What do I do? I think I may be in love with two men, and I don’t want to hurt anybody. – SINCERELY CONFUSED, SPENCER, IOWA

DEAR SINCERELY CONFUSED: End the relationship with Scott NOW, before he moves closer and enrolls at the new school. Do not move in with him out of pity, feeling as you do about your old boyfriend. Right now, you need a cooling-off period, so don’t jump back into the frying pan (or anywhere else) with Kenny either. From my perspective, although you think you’re in love with both of these perfect men, you may only be in love with love.

DEAR ABBY: I’m throwing a little birthday party for my 4-year-old son. I am trying very hard to keep the party small so that it does not become overwhelming.

My son chose four little preschool friends to come to his party, but two of the mothers have asked if they can also bring along 2-year-old siblings of the children who were invited.

Must I provide party favors for the 2-year-olds? – NEEDS TO KNOW — FAST!

DEAR NEEDS TO KNOW: It appears that two of the mothers either couldn’t find – or didn’t want to spring for – baby sitters. If you agreed that the little ones could come to the party, it would be gracious to provide something for them, too, so they won’t feel left out. Sorry, but when you’re on the hook, you’re on the hook – and the items needn’t be expensive.

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.