Voltare -> RE: first meeting protocol? (11/9/2004 6:18:02 AM)
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I wrote a rather cynical post on meeting from the internet a few months back, but the gist of my thoughts are simply this - treat the first meeting, like a real first meeting. The internet is like a big pickup bar. The person you show in this bar, is probably not identical to the person you are in real life - the same is true for everyone else. If the person is genuinely as good as you hope he is, then give him the time to show you this fact in real time. It only takes a few weeks of face to face, to really establish a sense of trust. It takes literally years or decades to get over the 'worst case situations' emotionally and financially. At the same time, the first meeting is like a first date - there's really no harm at all in a small (and INEXPENSIVE) gift. The best advice in the world is what your heart tells you - but like any first date, just be prepared for it to not work out. Don't ignore obvious warning signs (like the proverbial tan that left a white ring on his left ring finger.) I highly (highly highly) recommend not sharing a bed, having sex, or any kind of play on the first encounter under this situation (again, your milage may vary on this, these are just my views.) I also very strongly suggest if you are investing more then $500 in this meeting, that asking to see a few photos or a webcam would be a very wise idea (though many other people will disagree - it would have saved me a fair bit in travel expenses in the past.) Most importantly, be yourself and enjoy it. If it works out, then you'll have the rest of your life to spend getting to know this man. If it doesn't then don't try to make the square peg fit in the round hole - there are lots of men in this world. Good luck! Stephan
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