I did a few online only (with the intention to meet in person) relationships in the past, but they never worked out. I think a lot of it had to do with not just the distance, but the age and determination of the people I was in the relationship with. I still talk to a couple of them once in awhile. Only one ended on REALLY bad terms because I found out they were not who they said they were. I haven't spoken to that guy since it ended several years ago.

However, I met my current boyfriend on OkCupid. I've actually met several cool people on there. Some of them have become very close friends too. =) I sort of casually dated one of them, but realized it just wasn't working, and we decided friendship was fine for us. I am still pretty close with him though. But my boyfriend and I talked for a week or so online before meeting up. I knew he was interested in me more than just a friend, but I wanted to meet him first. Meeting someone in person is still different, and I was more afraid he was going to have this expectation of me and then be disappointed or have a change of heart when he met me in person. But he was still interested and so was I, so it worked out and we've been together for over 17 months now. =) (And fyi, it's not long distance.)

My sister also met her boyfriend online, and they've been together for 4 years and have been living together for 3 years.

Do I think online dating can work? Obviously, yes. Strictly online only? Maybe, but I can't see why anyone would just want to date online ONLY. A lot of times online dating involves long distance, which makes it very rough. I think if both people are determined enough, and have the intention of closing that distance eventually, they can make it work. But both people have to be on the same page. But of course, just with any relationship, there's risk involved, and it's not for everyone.

Meeting potential partners online isn't for everyone, but I find it difficult to meet people irl because I don't enjoy bars (I don't drink) or going to clubs. I'm not a fan of those type of settings. And most of the people who share my interests are online anyway. Lol. I still use OkCupid to meet new people and to make friends, but make it clear I'm not looking to date anyone since I have a boyfriend. And actually, I said that up front in my profile even before I met my bf. I was never using the site strictly to meet potential partners. I just used it to meet people in general.