If you’re like me, your first thought about dating sites is that they’re mostly for casual encounters. The idea of meeting a life partner online can seem far-fetched, clouded by stories of bad dates and failed connections. I’ve had my share of awkward experiences but I never imagined I’d meet the man I would spend the rest of my life with.
After my divorce, I wasn’t sure where to start. I had been married for 13 years, and the dating world had changed. I took a year for soul-searching and therapy, learning to embrace my new identity as a single mom and independent woman. That time was invaluable for me and my son. It helped both of us heal and grow.
When I finally felt ready to date, bars, dance clubs, and parties didn’t appeal to me. I needed a different approach, so I tried online dating. My first site, match.com, proved disappointing, many men were only interested in hookups. Then I decided to try eHarmony.
I’m not promoting one site over another, but my experience shows it’s possible to meet your life partner online. eHarmony begins with a detailed questionnaire that qualifies you for membership and generates matches. Initially, profiles don’t include photos, so you focus on values and compatibility before anything else.
For the first few months, I was skeptical that it would work. Then, while caring for my terminally ill father in Puerto Rico, I began communicating with Glen. Our conversations quickly moved beyond small talk, I asked the tough questions about parenting, religion, finances, and life goals. Every answer deepened my interest. After seeing his photos, I decided he was worth meeting.
After my father passed, Glen called, and we arranged a dinner date. His huge, enthusiastic smile won me over immediately. Seven years later, we’re still together.
The key to our success? Honesty. We were truthful throughout the process, aligning our values and expectations. The psychological profiling used by eHarmony helped us identify compatibility on important issues like family, finances, and blended parenting.
Finding a life partner online is possible, but there are no guarantees. Approach it with caution, be honest with yourself and your matches, and take your time. Whether online or “the old-fashioned way,” it’s possible to find someone who truly complements your life.
