101 Questions to ask Before You Get Engaged

Wow! Today, we seem to live in a society where it's nearly impossible for people to commit. The online dating scene is no exception. While online sites flourish and relationships come and go...some faster than others, precious few tie the knot. Beware of someone rushing the relationship...it should be a red flag. Approximately 5% of singles in North America seek out the Internet for meeting a mate, although that number is likely growing. Where are the other 95% hiding?

Since the online pool is actually quite small it will likely be a long journey before one gets to the "101 Questions to ask Before You Get Engaged" by H. Norman Wright. However, like one of Wright's friends shares, in searching for the perfect mate, it took a long time to realize there is no such creature out there!

One thing that I've found helpful is compiling experiences over the years from different situations and learned about compromise. When I find someone of interest, I stop and ask myself What can I live with or cannot accept. Then I look at will I fit theirs? It's extremely difficult to find someone who fits 100%. Maybe that's part of the challenge with our world today...we all have unrealistic expectations.

Real potential? Before writing off the next person you meet...perhaps consider what your hearts desires are and be open to exchanging a few emails.

After intentionally meeting people for 8 years (including a few serious dating relationships and nearly getting married), I've come to learn a few things about the online dating scene, young adult groups and dating in general. Pictures are important, however getting acquainted with someone who has like interests, shared common background and similar future goals is what counts in the long run. (And nothing replaces meeting in person.) Sometimes I've been guilty of putting to much emphasis on my own 'criteria'...in whatever area I thought was non-negotiable. Through the years, that's changed somewhat. (OK, so if it's my face that God gave me that's the block, I can't help it.)

It's always worth encouraging someone you've met to think it over. Hey, my mom was engaged to another man when she was in nursing school. My father, was leaving and heading far away to continue his doctoral studies at another university. He managed to convince my mother to break off the engagement and get to know him. Apparently, it took quite a bit of convincing, long distance silence, then calls, letters, visits and finally they were officially dating. My parents were married about 4 years later! In 2007, they celebrated 40 years of marriage!

So if you think your profiles share a lot in common and you'd like to pursue a friendship to see where it might lead, go for it. If he or she is truly the guy or gal portrayed in their profile and a great fit with yours, then it's worth a shot. Through the years I've learned that profiles only give a small glimpse of who someone really truly is.

Finally, never under estimate the power of prayer! Ask God to help open your eyes to what you need to see and to guide your friendship. Prayer works...I know from personal experience.

My final thoughts for all my single friends out there, is keep up your courage! It's a jungle out there!