 (Nick Galifianakis for The Post) | Adapted from an online discussion. Dear Carolyn: My friend "Maria" was married to "James" until three years ago. James and I became friends during that marriage and now realize we have feelings for each other. I haven't shared this with Maria yet, but other friends have noticed, and I have been told this would really hurt Maria and probably destroy our friendship. Maria was devastated by their divorce but seems to be doing much better now. We are all over 50. When I was 25, I would have considered it a cardinal sin to date a friend's serious ex. But at 50-something, I have experienced a shrinking dating pool and a growing feeling that life is too short to bypass possible companionship. However, I can't discount the importance of close friendships, either, like the one I have with Maria. Are the rules different at this stage of life, or am I just kidding myself so I can pursue something I want? — Dating Late in Life | 
