Avoid rushing into coupledom

Dear Annie: I am a sophomore in college and living the college life to the fullest. I go to a very rigorous school, and my studies, my job and sorority life take up most of my time.

Lately, I have noticed that all my friends seem to be getting into serious relationships. I, on the other hand, don’t have any real prospects, and to be honest, when I go to parties, I want to have fun and hang with my friends.

I feel I’m missing out on something. I must also add that I am a virgin and plan to stay that way until I am at least engaged. Pregnancy doesn’t coincide with my master plan (law school). It all makes sense in my head, but in my heart I’m lonely and worried that I may become an old maid. What is your advice? – On the Road to Success Yet Lonely

Dear On the Road: We understand the pressure you are under, watching your friends become attached, but it’s not a good reason to get seriously involved. Many of your friends’ current relationships may not last. College provides a terrific opportunity to meet same-age potential partners. You’re only a sophomore. Use this time to meet as many people as you can. If someone interests you, great, but just connecting is a good way to improve your dating skills and learn what you want in a relationship. Please don’t rush.

Dear Annie: Nine years ago, my husband, Robb, received the most memorable and priceless holiday gift: a kidney/pancreas transplant from a deceased donor. Though we’ve never met the donor’s family, we are always mindful of their generosity, particularly during the holiday season.

I took stock of my life and how blessed I was, and decided to give myself as a gift. Inspired by my late mother’s love and the generosity of my husband’s donor, I offered myself as a living nondirected kidney donor. It was the best gift ever. I was matched with the most compatible person on the waiting list, and we had the opportunity to meet after the surgery. My recipient, Dee, is now my dear friend.

I am also registered as a donor on my driver’s license and hope that more parts of me will live on as gifts to others after my death.

I encourage your readers to join the National Kidney Foundation’s Holiday Gift of Life Campaign.

Readers interested in learning more can visit the foundation’s Web site at www.kidney.org. – Lora Ward Wilson, Pittsburgh, Pa.

Dear Lora Wilson: Your husband was fortunate to have received his transplant, and you, dear, are truly a loving and selfless individual to have donated a kidney to a stranger. What a marvelous gift. Bless you.