Dangers of Crossing the Digital Fence
I’ve been doing this long standing survey on people I encounter, asking one simple question: “What do you do when you’re online?” It no longer comes as a surprise when the answer would be some social networking brand. Chatting comes second, followed closely by the ever-practical, forwarded messages magnet, the electronic mail. Yes, there are a lot of people, particularly the younger generation, who go online for one simple purpose — to connect.
For the more internet savvy, their activities will then branch out to reading online newspapers, following blogs, perhaps blogging themselves or putting up online business websites, frequenting forums, and for the love-lorn, dating websites.
Regardless of the medium, we are shielded from the rest of the public by our computers. We’re saved from having to face them physically. We all know what can be at stake if we allow them to be a part of our life offline. These people become more important. But, somehow, we all know that we all have to; given the right reason and motivation.
But what would cause one to cross the digital fence? For online dating, I can take a shot or two (and some extra) at the possible line of thinking of:
1. “I’ve had enough of the chatting and emailing!”
Ah, patience dear.
2. “Isn’t the whole point of dating to date and have that good night kiss?”
All I can do is sigh.
3. “He already asked me out several times, so, why not? “
Does that mean if he asks if he can go over your place X number of times, you’d let him, too?
4. “Wow! He’s willing go fly in just to meet me in person!”
Highly flattering but best think if you’d ever get to hear from the person again when he leaves.
5. “I need to know if we have chemistry if we meet in person.”
Good point but best if you’re able to weigh the more important ideals you have as criteria for your ideal mate.
I’ve encountered, read, and on occasion, experienced some of the ill-effects of crossing the said digital fence. I understand the risks involved (though I have to admit there were times when when I exercised poor judgment) in deciding to meet the other person in the flesh. being wary is not a bad thing. It’s better to have applied the necessary precautions than to regret it later on. You have to accept the fact that there are individuals out there who simply mean to take advantage, prey on your *lonely* heart.
If you truly seek a real relationship, online dating can still be a good avenue for you to explore. You have to practice patience and sound judgment, though. You can’t control who’ll respond to your personal ad or profile, but you do have control over how you would want to conduct yourself in the whole internet dating scene.
Besides, just remember that good things come to those who wait.
Tags: Dating, digital fence, internet-dating, online-dating, relationshipRelated Stories
POSTED IN: Advice
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