Online Dating

The Internet has been a godsend for dating services. The Web allows for things that would not be possible in ''regular'' life – whatever that may be. Men can be women, short guys can be tall and brunettes can be natural blondes. The key here is that what you see may not be what you get, so be careful.

Here are some basic ways of ensuring that your chat partner is sincere. If the person contacts you the second you get online; prefers chatting with you over others; flirts in a sweet way; is eager to trade pictures and their interest level goes up afterwards; is honest with you and their story adds up; volunteers information to set your mind at ease; inquires about your life; lets you be in control of the pace; swears this is the first time they are doing this (and they are being honest) or has been in touch with you for a long time - then it may be the real deal.

At some point, the two of you may be interested in seeing one another. Before you do this, speak on the phone. After all, it is easier to judge someone on the phone than it is by a picture. It may even make more sense to speak with one another before exchanging pictures.

If things are still going well, then you may decide to take the giant leap and meet in person. This is only advised when you are 99.9% convinced that this person is really who they have told you they are. If at any time something does not jive, call it off.

When and if you decide to meet, ask your friends, siblings and maybe even your parents what they think about it. Most likely they will be against it. The idea is not to get their approval but to inform them in the eventuality that they know something you do not.

If you decide to meet, do so in a neutral spot where you will not be alone. Let others know where you will be and try to be in a position where you can be reached. Take it slowly. After all, this is a person that you thought you would never meet and now they are sitting there in front of you. There is no rush.

Depending on whether this person lives in your hometown or not will dictate what can happen thereafter. Whatever you do, be careful. Long distance relationships are hard and expensive.