Dear Abby: My life is a failure I don’t know how I’m able to live moving forward

A 44-year-old man who feels his life has failed asks Dear Abby how to find a direction. He describes bullying and social difficulties at school, a prison sentence for fraud, and frustration that his record and age have closed off careers he once wanted; the advice focuses on finding realistic ways to build purpose.

Abby suggests seeking a career counsellor who works with people with criminal records, who may offer assessments and information about grants or scholarships. She also recommends volunteering with animal shelters, food banks or homeless shelters, disclosing his record when applying. A second letter asks men dating after widowhood to improve their hygiene, and Abby agrees that they should shower and wear clean clothes.