I completly agree with the above: the internet has helped people who ordinary would not have met each other meet and increase their chances at finding something that is hard enough to find with the people you actually meet in real life, -- almost like bypassing fate and creating your own destiny sort of thing--but as far as it being real and helping in the real world--not so, electronic interaction is just that , its not natural, and you won't be acting and reacting naturally until you meet the person in real life-see them in real light, hear their voice, and last but not least, smell them !

The 2 comments before me, they must not be very personable. I beleive in the face to face thing, but this is set up to help you get there, I think. Sorry for wasteing your precious time.

I met a love by A chat someone who was 3000 miles away we eneded up together even living and I have to admit I want to do it again. no one around me in my state would be bold to talk to me face to face and as comfortable as you are in your home for some reason its easyer to meet someone then not to.

The title of this article is "All I really need to know about dating I learned from my computer". I'm sorry folks, but I don't think online dating really prepares you for the real thing. It isin't much more than a facilitator to help you find someone potentially compatable. (Assuming the person's profile is accurate) There's just no substitute for meeting someone face to face and using your instincs and a good gut feeling to get you through. Experience is the real teacher, people need to get out, have some faith and confidence that they will do just fine. Don't get me wrong, I think on line dating is fine but I don't think it should be promoted as the end all and be all of learning how to date. We acquire MUCH more knowledge by simply getting out and meeting people while the computer is best kept in it's place. . . as a link to the next possibility.

it's the same people on the internet as in the grocery store, gym, church, etc. they are driving right next to you, at the restaurant, at the bar, etc. what's the difference?

I agree with Dan on this. Online dating is NOTHING, I repeat, NOTHING like the real deal.

Here is a quote from the original article : "Whatever it is that you fail at online, the beauty part is this: it really doesn't matter." I think that says it all folks. No accountability. Is that the kind of nonsense that you want to waste your precious time and effort for? Not me. This kind of flip attitude and larger than life boldness on the internet is exactly what gets people into trouble. But, I do agree it is a starting point - but, as usual, buyer beware. grg

=[ The advice you gave was really good, but there's two sides to it. Sure, online dating can help boost up your confidence a bit in real life... but its still from experience. Without real experience, you really wouldn't learn anything, now would you?

I've always been taught that life is what you make it.If this is what life has become then let's ride it for what it's worth.

Online dating in anyform is scary. There is no way that you know their true age, gender, marital status, and/or criminal background. In addition the low or no cost service provides no incentive for people to be honest. You get what you pay for. Is there any reason to open yourself to these types of predators, especially as a single parent. Check out reputible dating services that have REAL offices instead of a server.