Wife’s friendship presents decision

Dear Annie: I am an intelligent 70-something with a good education and am a responsible father and grandfather. I am also the husband (more than 40 years) of an amazing, accomplished woman.

For the past 20 years, my wife has had a platonic friendship with a man who has far more in common with her than I do. I admit I’ve been jealous, but I also see how happy and radiant she is after a visit with him. She claims he is like a brother to her, and I think that is probably true. But I know she loves him.

I’ve tried to change myself into someone more compatible with her. I’d been negligent for years in my personal hygiene and began taking more showers. And after a lifetime of overeating, dieting is difficult. I’m sure my body turns her off. I also have tried to enjoy the kinds of things she appreciates, but we are just too different in our tastes.

My wife is sweet, kind and affectionate. She cooks great meals, keeps our home running smoothly and ministers to me gently when I am sick. She even does most of the repairs around the house. We do enjoy some things together, like movies and traveling. If I initiate sex, she is a willing partner. We share laughs and commiserate over our problems.

If I forbid her to see this man, I know it will turn her away from me. So I have decided to let her spend time with him, especially when I am busy with things that don’t interest her. My life is good, my wife is happy, and I am truly content. The man she loves is intelligent and interesting, which makes it easier to take. I know she will never leave me. I’m determined to be happy for her. Are there other men who have had the strength to make a similar decision? – Ex-Professor Out East

Dear Professor: Possibly, although not too many would be so generous. These types of decisions are personal and individual. If the arrangement is OK with you and makes your wife happy, it is no one else’s business.