soul mate

OkCupid tells me I’m 99 percent compatible with another visitor to the online dating site. This is based on how Mr. 99% and I answered hundreds of questions. Here are examples of the 547 questions we both answered.

The book Soul Signs by Rosemary Altea not only taught me about myself, it also taught me how to determine compatible mates for me. With my horrible track record, the lesson was welcome.

“Searching for a soul mate” seems to be a preoccupation on Internet dating sites. Supposedly, finding some preordained person will almost effortlessly foster days of mutual bliss. Should any conflicts arise, they will be easily negotiated. Most importantly, soul mates will bring out the best in one another.

Here’s an all-too-typical opening line from a man reaching out to me on an online dating site: “You look like sweet nectar and I want to make you scream.”

I have to confess: I am a glass-half-full-pollyannish-romantic-type person. Still, when I hear skepticism and concern about my decision for a new adventure in online dating, I get the point. I will be cautious with my expectations, and how I approach this experience.