Agreed!

I'm not sure what posting fake pics accomplishes. Don't people know that if someone expresses interest, they'll eventually meet and the cat will be out of the bag? Do they really think they'll dupe someone into staying if it's not what they bargained for. I, for one, wouldn't give someone like that my trust. How adolescent!

PS - I understand all the other reasons for not posting. My point is only for those who deliberately post fake pics. I suppose if they don't intend to meet anyone, they don't feel there's any harm done. They're only padding their egos ;)

Soooooo very important, StormMessages!

I was in one for three years. I think it can work if the couple has a definite plan, i.e., we'll keep this up for one to three years and then you or I will move nearby. But: if the long distance is indefinite, then I'm not very hopeful it can or will last without heartache and pain. Human beings are made to be together, in close proximity, however much failed relationships happen as a result. Just my two cents.

Participate in forums. Got it! Thanks guys!

Ya, I guess it's a question of perspective. A lot are on here testing the waters, wondering if they can solicit interest via "winks" and "matching". Few actually follow through for fear, I guess, of rejection, suspicion of automated prompts, and just plain strange people :)

Ah, I guess it doesn't hurt to keep one's presence on here and engage as much as one can, not banking too much on success--even if it can happen.

Do you guys find it as tough to meet someone on here as you would, say, in a bar or other social gathering? Just to get a conversation going seems like a garble of mixed messages and self-defeating projections. "Selling yourself" in the real world seems a little less complicated. Much easier to pick up on body language and the like.