Times have changed, and as we all know the Internet has created new ways of human interaction through social networking sites, instant messaging and Internet forums.  It could be the reason why most of us no longer think dating is an unusual way to meet a prospective new romantic partner.  After all, millions of potential mates are just a click away.

Yes, the Internet does allow us to make contact and communicate with one another.  We now have the opportunity to make friends with incredible people around the world and even become closer to former acquaintances.

I have definitely made friends online, which am grateful for.  I am experiencing different cultures, different believes, different lifestyles that otherwise I might not have.  These are people that I admire and consider myself very lucky to have met.

However, online dating, in my books, is far from a realistic life experience.  How can a romantic relationship become, if not lived in the real world with real distractions.  What about a person’s mannerisms, flaws…. Even in regular circumstances, physical chemistry, regardless of looks, is an important part of a relationship.  Can those characteristics be seen online along with the sweet notions?

Let’s face it, online dating is nowhere near an in person encounter.  Well, what I’m trying to say is, it’s the everyday life experience, whether good or bad, which in this case keeps you apart.  Online you’re focused on that certain someone;  meaning you could be falling in love with an online persona, in which case, expectations can lead to great disappointment.

While finding a mate online for some people is the only way, the concept of love may not be as concrete as it appears.  People need an anticipated face to face meeting to see their many ’profiles’ whether it’s their best or worst, not just the best one they want to put forward.

The environment of the Internet is a temptation, which I believe, certain individuals need to simply feel in control of their future;  no matter of the potential risks and agonizing experience.

Moreover, how deep can lovers be online?  The build up of excitement can at times make people say things they don’t mean and later realize they don’t actually feel that way at all. Talk about getting your feelings, behaviours and time spent in a relationship out of sync. Very unrealistic feelings, if you ask me.

Love is a natural drive as powerful as life itself.  Romance usually implies an expression of one’s love, or one’s emotional desires to connect with another person.  The real danger of Internet dating is harmful and will creep up on you before you know it and may be trapped by the illusion.

Has old fashioned dating become so unfamiliar that we are now willing to live without all those interesting person to person experience, without that first meeting, without the impulsiveness?  I will never forget the night I met my husband, but most of all I will never forget the way he first looked at me,  his eyes said it all;  and our storyline, is one I often share with our kids.

Once again, it is a wonderful way for people to connect with other who share same interests.  As for a romantic relationship, I strongly believe it requires much more attention and satisfaction than just turning a computer on!  To me, such quick and accessible intimacy doesn’t seem real or in some cases normal.

Though being a long time skeptic on this matter, I do have to say, every situation is different.

Marchi