Well, I guess there is one thing to be said for being around as long as I have been, and making as many mistakes in my life as I have. You learn a hell of a lot about what works and what doesn't work in life. But the most important lessons you learn are those affecting the relationship between a man and a woman. Some people don't learn them at all and continue to make the same mistakes over and over again, wondering why they can't find a loving, meaningful relationship. Some people learn these lessons too late and never find the love they seek.

Most of us probably fall into the later category. I am one of the lucky ones. Just when I thought it was too late for me, just when I thought that all the knowledge I had gained through painful and foolish mistakes would be wasted, a miracle by the name of Gina appeared and I was given another chance. I think I am finally prepared to take advantage of such good fortune!

My family owns a laundromat. Not a very glamorous occupation to be sure. But there is one thing about it that makes it unique to most occupations. You meet a lot of people. Most of them women. And when you see someone once a week, every week, for two or three hours, your conversations inevitably become personal. I have learned more while working at the laundromat than anywhere else about how women view relationships and what they expect from men. If you are genuinely interested and compassionate it's amazing what a woman will tell "her laundry attendant."

I like women and have to admit that, all things considered, they are generally better people then us men. Having said that, I guess it's not surprising that so many ladies confide in me and seek my advice. I sometimes feel that the laundromat was secondary to my career as "relationship and marriage counselor."

If any of you out there, men or women, could use some advice or just an ear from someone who has been there, wherever there might be, I hope you'll contact me and let me help! That's why we are here after all, to learn and to share what we have learned with others. Share your questions by clicking here! [email protected] Talk to you soon, Jim!

-Jim- [email protected]

-Gina-   [email protected]