I keep reading posts about how you can't love someone you've never met, someone you've only met online and talked on the phone... never met face to face. "you can't love someone without knowing them." But, I also keep reading about people missing those they talk to. Wanting to be with those they talk to. Feeling happy when they're "close" sad when they're not. Feeling cheated when things won't go their way with those they talk to. That isn't love? then what is it? Nothing? infatuation? just plain loneliness making jokes on you? What? ^^

It is the void of loneliness that is temporarily being filled.

Love is a many splendid thing.........

and impossible to put a finger upon.

"To each his own"

I like that. ^^ So is neediness (that even a word?) then?

I think you're right in your post about what love is...but I don't think you can accurately assess whether those feelings are true or not if you never see each other in person.

Another good question. Something I think I am guilty of...but not in love. Infatuated maybe...the sense of having some kind of attention..."communication" (which is one of the most important thing in a relationship). Yes, when you are lonely, you do want someone to talk to...write you...even when you haven't met them yet. And when you do meet...your perception can either get stronger or weaken.

I believe.