I have witnessed the same phenomenon in two separate cases, therefore, I have to assume that it is a human quality and should be noted. I realize that two cases are not a bona fide mathematical survey but let me relate them to you and you can reach your own conclusion.

We are talking about two sets of senior citizens. Each set has a Mr. A. and a Mr. B. Mr. A. (in both cases) is a gregarious, joke-telling, affable guy. Everybody would like to be his friend. Socially he is a winner and everyone gathers around him at parties and gatherings. Hail fellow, well met!

Mr. B. is about the same age but he is less sure of himself and a bit awkward. His jokes lose their punch and at times his conduct is inappropriate. He's a good guy but no one seeks his company.

Mr. B. holds Mr. A. in high esteem. He would love nothing better than being pals and hanging around with Mr. A. He tries very hard, a bit too hard, to ingratiate himself with the smooth, suave Mr. A.

Unfortunately, Mr. A. cannot stomach Mr. B. He tells subtle jokes and denigrates Mr. B. at every opportunity. He winks and nods at other guys to embarrass the fellow he has no use for. When viewed from a safe distance his behavior is cruel. The more Mr. A. digs at Mr. B. the less Mr. B. sees what is happening. He tries harder and harder but it is of no use. He is rejected at every turn. Mr. A. is having a great time but Mr. B. can't get to first base.

And now for the surprising end to this dilemma. Mr. A., while digging mercilessly at Mr. B. at a gathering, goes a tad too far. Mr. B's eyes open wide and he sees that he has been made a fool and a stooge. He stops talking to Mr. A. and makes a point of avoiding him completely. He shuns his former hero and does it overtly.

Mr. A. is not used to being shunned by anyone, especially Mr. B. He tries to be nice to Mr. B. No use!

Mr. B. will have nothing to do with his former idol. He avoids him like one of the 10 plagues in Exodus.

Eventually Mr. A. writes a letter of apology to Mr. B. He is sorry for any misunderstanding and wishes to resume the so-called friendship. Mr. B. does not acknowledge receipt of the letter. The silent treatment continues and the relationship ends on a low note. Mr. A. is devastated.

I have witnessed this sad tale twice in the last six months. Both incidents exactly the same, letters and all. The "social cycle" goes around whether you are in junior high school or a distinguished senior citizen. We are forever teenagers.

As a social observer I have related this double tale of woe to you my reader.

What is your take on this phenomenon?