Because of several factors, including shyness and being very conservative when I was younger, and, in recent years, lack of opportunity with the right person, I am a virgin. In fact, I have not dated a whole lot. Almost all women who are anywhere close to my age have been through a series of serious relationships or have been married and divorced. How should I handle this difference in life experience? I do not want to think I just waited too late and should resign myself to being an old bachelor.

Most people in your situation don't say that they've waited to make this decision, but rather blame their shyness for not having had a partner and regret it. So I see it as a positive thing that you are not looking back at the past with sadness, but are setting your sights on a positive future. And it's that positive attitude that I believe is the key to your finding success. Don't worry about your lack of experience. Let me rephrase that: don't worry too much about it. Obviously you are going to worry a little; who wouldn't? But just don't let those worries stop you. It's something that you have to get through, but with the right attitude I'm sure you can do it. Don't tell any woman you date about your inexperience. Just don't talk about your past at all. Also, there are plenty of women out there who, if not very inexperienced, are not overly experienced and who will not make an issue out of it. They'll be happy to have a man interested in them and will overlook whatever faults you bring to the relationship as long as you are willing to overlook their faults.