Well, I guess age does matter to a certain degree. But, I think what matters most is what the individuals involved think. If a age difference of 30 years is ok, then so be it. But, if even 5 years is too much difference to one person, then it does matter.

And sccording to eharmony.com, shared values and outlook on life are the most important things for a relationship to succeed. I also think eharmony matches people within 7 years of age, supposed because research shows that to also be a good indicator of good marriages. But, I know of plenty of good marriages that have lasted, where the age difference is as much as 20 years.

Also, in answer to the earlier comment about race, religion, political views and everything else, well, if people are attracted and want to be together, race, religion, even political views don't matter. It is up to the individual to determine what matters. I myself, don't really care. What is important is the woman's temperment, whether she is a tender, caring person. Whether she is intelligent, thoughtful and other personality traits that I can't really describe too well. Any race, religion, disability, or political view could easily fit that.

Love matters.
Understanding what love is matters.
Here's one. Understanding that the definition of love changes with age and experience matters.

What I thought of as love 15 years ago is entirely different than how I perceive it today. I'm quite positive I will see love an entirely different way, as I'm learning from a woman 11 years younger than me who has children. As we spent our time together sharing gifts, she said, "You're in heaven, aren't you". "Yup" Just before they left, baby girl came up to me and gave me a hug, and looked at her mom and said, "Group hug!" So I picked her up and me, her mother and her group hugged. Remind you of a song? I'm still taking it all in.

Hey, lots of good responses. But, the point is moot, because the girl in question just is not interested in a man who is "old enough to be my father". I have started looking for women closer to my age, say 26 (though that is still young) to 44.

I think that may work out better. But, I still think age doesn't really matter, it is up to each person to figure that out. It only matters if you make it matter.

Yeah...preferences really blow when they don't fall in line with your personal attributes...

sure it's up to my kids. i didn't say that i'd dictate who they date.

however, i don't have to like who they choose.

i'm not in the position yet, but i bet i'd have issues if my daughter ended up dating a man 30 years her senior, or my son 20 his junior.

Hey, lots of good responses. But, the point is moot, because the girl in question just is not interested in a man who is "old enough to be my father". I have started looking for women closer to my age, say 26 (though that is still young) to 44.

I think that may work out better. But, I still think age doesn't really matter, it is up to each person to figure that out. It only matters if you make it matter.