I often think it's a pity that people rush to try new-fangled methods -- such as on-line dating sites on the Internet -- when the old-fangled methods of meeting respectable people are far more reliable, not to speak of cheaper. By old-fangled, I mean methods such as talking to friendly-looking people at church, at your regular jam session, at the gym, at work, or any other place where you routinely meet the same people over and over again, and you can be reasonable sure you have a great deal in common with them, such as culture, profession, interests, age and education. The other great advantage of these venues is that you can be reasonably sure that the people you meet there are sober (well, perhaps not at a pub session) and acting as honestly as they ever do.

The thing is to find people in their own natural habitat, as it were, and engage them fair and square in honest activities over a protracted period. Then you can see them as they are, and they can see you as you are.

Unlike Internet dating, this method takes time, patience and sincerity. Also unlike Internet dating, it works -- as any happily remarried middle-aged or older individual will tell you. And you end up with a genuine circle of friends and friendly acquaintances, even if you don't find the love of your life.