Dear Annie: A promise ring for teens makes more sense than a secret engagement.

Dear Annie: I read your column, “Love Wins,” by a 16-year-old girl who asked if she could secretly get engaged to her boyfriend, both still in high school. I agree with your assessment: if something this important has to remain a secret, something is wrong.

I would like to add that the practice of using a promise ring is a forgotten tradition that dates back only a few generations. A boy about the same age as her boyfriend gave his high school sweetheart an inexpensive ring, and then they waited a couple of years to actually get engaged.

This act gives the couple a chance to enter the real world together and see what it’s like to be an adult couple – with jobs, higher education, hobbies and goals that don’t always align. It will also be something publicly available. Maybe Love Wins should go this route? — Young married, two decades later

Dear married young people: Thank you for your letter. Several other readers wrote the same nice suggestion. I agree that the intention behind a promise ring reflects the love these two have for each other, but without having to hide it or rush into a lifelong commitment until they’re older and completely ready for it – the perfect next step.

Send your questions to Annie Lane at [email protected].