I think online dating is a very wise path to choose when one is ready to make that jump back into mature dating. And, if I were single, I would feel no shame using this manner of meeting possible partners. Actually, it is far better means to get to know people than the method I used in my youth, which was to choose or accept probable partners based on my level of attraction. Obviously I have grown up since then. Now I would much rather get to know someone through shared writing. Life experiences and painful mistakes have taught me that the attraction born of real connection and communication would be much preferred and substantial than a relationship produced by sexual attraction. I have not had any experience with online dating so I don't know how much time is spent in written communication prior to meeting. However, I imagine it varies. But if I had my choice I would prefer to get know potential suiters gradually through writing. It would certainly be a new approach for me. But it would be effective, mature and necessary if I were to enter the dating world again. Now I know authentic, lasting attraction is created by genuine, deep connection, real conversations that lead to shared discovery of ideology, values and true life perspectives. And, I believe honest communication through writing would be, at least for me, the best avenue to choose when contemplating dating again.