Couples with big age difference - does it work?

Most of the discussions I've read about are women relaying their relationship experiences, whether the men were older or younger. I'm curious to hear of things from the male perspective. (1) Does the once carefree, fun and energetic older woman suddenly morph into mom? (2) Did you go from a 20 something year old male who wanted to be/appear more mature to a 30 something year old mature male who desired act like a 30 something male, but stuck in a relationship where you feel forced to maintain a 40 something facade or else? (3) Are you stuck with an older woman clinging on to an image of herself that past decades ago? There you are, a nice 30 something exec, at the yearly company Christmas party in nice adult male attire forced to have a 40 something wife by your side sporting a mini and barely recognizable tattoo? (4) Does the once suprisingly mature younger woman suddenly begin displaying characterics of her own age group? (5) Does the younger woman who said age doesn't matter ever change later and say "oops, it does matter now - sorry I made a mistake", causing you to lose the 10 years of eligibility you had left?

It's been said that the quickest path to separation in these situations is for the older partner to take on the role of parent to the younger partner, no matter how lovingly it is done. How do handle going through a situation where you know the outcome, but need to allow the younger partner experience making the wrong decision? What if the situation or your age does not permit "Do overs" but the younger partner just can't see the light yet?


Where are the men out there?

~rm