Before I begin to regale you with a few more online anecdotes, I just wanted to thank all of you who have read and/or commented on the two blogs. I've been told by a few readers that its difficult to post a comment on this site and have chosen to write me via gmail/G+ or facebook. What ever way you chose, please keep the comments coming! Whether the reviews are positive or critical, they give me an idea whose reading this and what might make this more compelling. I've even been challenged to a female vs male online date-off: who suffers more? What do you think of that? I was pleasantly surprised at the amount of men who took the time to read and comment as well. As I said in the first post, my objective here isn't to bash men, but to learn more about each other and why we do the...uh...rather...exceptional...things never to be forgotten. I promise I'll share some of what readers have told me (I'm not the only one who received "package" deliveries!) in just a sec, but first, I have to tell you about a man who wrote one of the sweetest, most heartfelt (see? I do have feelings!) messages I've ever read. Anonymity is a given at all times; no one deserves to be hurt or embarrassed, at any cost. This young man (a very good looking young man, I might add, ladies!) was particularly interested in the online dating concept, as he was having a very difficult time meeting women who didn't have "an agenda" (another topic we will cover in a future post). This man has been through a lot of emotional turmoil recently and isn't quite ready to jump into a committed relationship yet, but truly wants the opportunity to get to know a "good woman" on a different level than just a physical one. Of course, he hopes, as we all do (yes, even me!) that a friendship will develop into something more in the future, but right now, he doesn't want the pressure of being a "boyfriend".
Is this possible? Can two people who have a mutual attraction for each other be patient enough to learn about one another, begin to trust one another, before jumping into bed?
Another gentleman responded that the whole online dating concept was just another way to "hook up". Its his opinion that women believe their power over men is sex. He believes that a woman will use her sexuality as a type of leverage to get what they want--boyfriend, husband, money, status, etc. Although I've personally never engaged in that kind of behavior, I can't say he's completely incorrect. Women are exploited as sex objects to most men. Have you ever seen an overweight, unattractive NFL cheerleader? Been in a sports bar that had a predominately male wait staff? Yes, this man's response may be extreme, but he had to learn it somewhere.
One of the more popular cyber dating services claims that for every 7 dates, a member might meet one person they find a deeper connection with. I don't think those are such bad odds...and it sure beats going to a bar to meet Mr. Perfect who can't remember his own name, let alone yours.
Regardless of the way we choose to find a potential mate, we're attempting to fulfill a basic instinct of sharing our life with another. God knows (and, apparently, so do I) its far from easy. Its not always happy. But there are those incredible times of joy and love that keeps our hope alive.
This post is much more serious than I had intended, but judging from the responses I've received, its a subject that needs to be considered. So, please...keep your messages coming. Use facebook, gmail, G+...whatever makes you feel comfortable enough to share your thoughts without concern. I hope I've proved to you that I am not trying to cause harm or unfair judgement. There are never wrong answers...just another opportunity to learn what makes us tick.
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