I had s realization recently. I realized that I did have a good number of decent, actual in-person friends over the years, and I have a few good ones now. I also realized that I could improve my friend count online, but I hesitate due to the physical division of the internet and the devices between us and what had happened with me with the various online fakers. As well as those fakers and toxic ones who manipulated others to play on me within the bunch of theoretical exes.
I am content that I no longer require the details of online dating websites.
I also state in regards to the recent and more recent in-person encounters with my fans and admirers my deep appreciation for their genuine kindness and support.
I was hurt by the misconduct of those toxic ones online over the time, but I know better now. How many times did it have to happen before it finally sank into my brain for better. Too many people have social anxieties for this and other fears and concerns in avoiding the pains for themselves.
But establishing friendships is similar to dating in that you make the better friends from acquaintances. It remains important to distinguish the differences between acquaintances and friends and the social boundaries and conduct, appropriately.
I admit, I was stuck in my desire for the long term love and romance with one particular individual; that was quite the search. But I did understand since even before the year 2000 that such the deeper, intimate relationship requires friendship first and foremost. After all, the various couples and poly partners respectively get to know each other amongst themselves, and those details are not always going to be storybook fairy tale romances. Drama from time to time I'd to be expected, and supporting each other through those times kindly and lovingly helps a lot.
But I digress.
I would consider online friendships, but in doing so, it should be required that at least one video call and/or in-person meeting face-to-face be done.
And Honesty and Authentic is a Must for the better, Light-Powered and Good friendships.