Is Cyber Romance for You?

By: Andrea Edwards

            In recent years, online dating has increasingly become a major source of finding that special someone for many people across the world.  Today there are as many different dating sites as there are differences in people.  If, say for instance you wanted to find someone with a particular body type, religion, race, or income level—there’s a site for that.  In fact, there seem to be a site for just about anything you fancy in a prospective partner.

            Recently my own niece got married to a very nice and attentive guy she met on eHarmony, and they’re now preparing to bring a child in the world.  They are not what people once considered losers who had to resort to the internet to find love.  On the contrary, both are smart, college educated professionals, good looking with the personality to match.  So why go online, as oppose to getting hooked-up by a friend of a friend?

            Well, as well intended as friends and or family can be when it comes to their efforts to pair us up with that someone they know who would be “just right for you,” many are opting to take matters into their own hands.  Let’s face it, who truly knows you better than you know yourself?  Furthermore, many singles like the idea of the anonymity associated with the medium.  They also like the fact that there are many potential partners from which to weed-out, that doesn’t require the time, effort or money one may utilize for an actual first date.

            Sure, there are deceptive people that hide behind the anonymity of the computer.  However, as with conventional methods of dating, it is important to read between the lines and to exercise good judgment.  Often times if there are any inconsistencies with the profile you fell in like with, it will be presented once you begin communicating with them. The important thing to remember is to never let someone pressure you into going at a pace uncomfortable to you, but most of all, don’t knock it until you’ve tried it.