Some people — perhaps many — among my aquaintance think that I am “anti-child.” My love of cats, dogs and other small furry creatures only partially redeems my reputation in the minds of these people.

But I’m not anti-child. It might be fair to call me “anti-baby” but only because I don’t find babies that interesting and they are a little annoying. But I like the idea of babies, and I’m always happy for people who want them and have them. However, kids from the ages of about 2 to about 12 are a whole different thing. They are enchanting. Their uncolored view of the world, their playfulness, their fearlessness, their cuteness — all of these things amaze me. I like kids in that age group a lot, and I enjoy spending time with them.

Which is why I was so tickled by this Miss Manners column. I really wish I lived in the multi-generational world she describes, where adults and kids socialize, celebrate and learn together.

Alas.