interesting thread, I checked out the dating sites this year too. If its any consolation i saw a lot of people posing hiding behind sunglasses, or using photos that were often ten yrs out of date. I think the art of writing is limited to a few. I dont feel many value companion ship or believing in getting to know someone. THey make these rash judgements all looking for that perfect mugshot photo thats about as unrealistic as their egos.

I agree when we have conditions and we cant get no joy, or response we wonder, but like you said. On a site no one would know on site if you had a condition or not.

I know people on this website write, a lot more and seem to be more deeper in thought and having a will to be honest about who they are on the inside and looking to grow. In my experiences on these chat and dating places, and even in my life with dates, who turned out to be users, or abusers they are just after a sticking plaster to prop up their needs for that moment. not an ugly photo for sure or bad aura.

Also ive had people come to me for some thing they see externally about me, but then they do not know me, or think its important, id rather be liked for who i am. I dislike loneliness, but now id rather be lonely than with soneone who makes me feel even more lonely in their company thanks.

Wow I can't believe how many people replied to this thread and I thank you for your thoughts and personal experiences. I agree poeple just want a quick fix to build their egos and I'm guilty of that from the past. As I get older now my views and opinions on what I want have changed. It is sad so many great women pick the shallow type of guy other than the one that means well. I talked to a girl the other day and in so many words said I was too poor for her because she wanted to go out and do things. Well by no means am I cheap and I love taking someone out to dinner once a week and doing things with them. Okay so I don't live in the rich neigboorhood to go on a cruise every year. I do the best I can. I know people know what I'm talking about. I'm just sorry to complain here. You guys are my sounding board and it is nice to have peers that can identify with what I'm feeling.

It's no picnic for women either. I'm not looking for a husband, just friends to do things with, enjoy life, laugh a little.

When you meet someone you can't know if it is a 'love connection', right away. I don't think you can get that from an online dating site either. I don't like it when a guy is coming on to me an hour after I've met him (what the hell)!

I'm pretty clear about my expectations. Friends first, that's what I'm looking for. I'm not opposed to deeper relationships developing, but that's not what I'm focused on right now.

I'm not looking for anybody's money either. I'm not rich (or even well to do), but I can take care of me. I've never considered myself to be a shallow person. I do expect a man to be able to take care of himself.

My point is simple, everybody is not the same, nor do they want the same things.

If I just wanted a man, I could've stayed with my cheating ex. (Sorry for ranting)!!