Ask Amanda

Dear Amanda,

So I think I might have met the love of my life at an Christian Internet dating site. We've been talking for nearly three weeks now, and we seem to be matching up quite well. He lives in Canada and works full-time. I live here and go to school full-time. What should I do?

-Hopelessly almost in love with a Canadian.

(or am I just dumb?)

Dear Just Dumb,

Normally I'm quite dubious of the virtual lure of high-speed (or dial-up) Internet dating. Dating through a computer monitor just doesn't have the same appeal. You can't decipher vocal innuendo, make critical eye contact, or catch the nervous fidget before a goodbye. And while Internet dating is limiting your warm fuzzy hand-holding moments, it's also stifling the spontaneity of sunny day picnics and last minute Kline's runs. Besides, how can you be so sure that Mr. Canada isn't graying, fifty, married with children your age (ew).

But despite my obvious reluctance, I will continue and give you further advice. We seem to have two main obstacles to Mr. Canada. The first being that he is a Canadian residing in that frigid arctic land called Canada. The arctic is good for penguins and caribou. You are neither. If this relationship persists, one of you will probably have to relocate. Don't let it be you. Do not move to the freezing tundra. Just don't do it.

Now that that's been settled, let's progress. You two seem to be at different life stages. Perhaps he's a wealthy ranch owner tied down with the responsibilities of cattle, while you're an indebted, roaming soul looking towards further schooling or towards a future low-to-no paying job on the other side of the world (read: MCC). Potentially these interests are irreconcilable, unless of course he's paying off your loans in cattle to MCC (read: perfect scenario).

Either way, where you both are in life will determine much of the future of this long distance relationship. People change and relationships ebb and flow, even virtual ones (I suppose). You are the only one who can determine your personal longterm goals and if Mr. Canada is worth your virtual pursuit. Perhaps you could lure him down south with promises of sunlight and above-freezing temperatures. Stick with it and in time you will discover if it's a match made in heaven or (brrrrrrr!) Canada.