I thought you might enjoy reading about my thoughts on the challenges of dating for senior singles in this humorous blog entitled Dating in Cyberspace.
Did you know that many seniors are reluctant to embrace dating in cyberspace because they are not comfortable with the technology or the digital culture around dating apps and sites?
I get it.
From deciphering acronyms like “LOL” to mastering the art of emoji usage, I’ve had my fair share of digital mishaps.
At one point, I accidentally sent a thumbs-up emoji with hearts for eyes, to my boss, a millennial, thinking it was a friendly gesture, only to realize later, that it might have been misinterpreted as a marriage proposal.
Cue HR. No wonder I hate pink – especially when it comes with a notice of termination.
ICYMI – in case you missed it – Gen Z and millennials have used social media to find the perfect partner for dating and mating for almost two decades now.
Just look at my own family – both of my adult sons, my brother, and three of my four nieces and nephews have all met their romantic partners online.
Since my dating life is more like a requiem to the dead than a cheesy love song, I held my nose and dived into a dating app For Single Seniors aptly named Silver Spark.
Chat GPT helped me craft the perfect online dating profile.
His suggestions ranged from the practical – use a clear recent photo, preferably without good-time Johnny (my personal support walker) – to the more creative – mention your love for skydiving, even if the last time you jumped was in your dreams.
As I started swiping left and right, like a randy teenager, I not only ruined my manicure, I also dropped my phone, cracking the screen, right in the middle of a busy coffee shop.
Imagine my surprise when the app suggested Yoda, Joan Rivers, Chat GPT and Johnny, as my ideal romantic matches.
Joan Rivers? Isn’t she dead?
Since I already have enough drama in my life without Yoda or Joan, Johnny and Chat seemed like the only viable suitors.
So, I decided to let them duke it out – although I must admit I’m a bit worried that Johnny thinks he’s still in the dating game.
I used a SWOT analysis to assess each of my suitors. Here’s what I came up with.
In the age department, Johnny’s got some serious history, hailing from the 1950s.
We groove to the same tunes, and laugh at the same jokes. On the flip side, Chat didn’t even dip his digital toe into the dating pool until November 2022.
Talk about a clash of the timelines! It’s like Youth Vs. Experience, the ultimate showdown in work, life, and romance.
Next I looked at their different communication styles. Johnny is a man of few words, if any at all.
He shows his love through actions – solid, reliable, and aways willing to do anything and everything I want, including carrying my groceries, doing my laundry, and even holding my purse. And, who doesn’t love a guy with buns of steel?
Although Johnny may not be a chatterbox – he is an excellent listener, and never interrupts my monologues to mansplain or criticize. Moreover, he’s always up for adventure, and, unlike most men I know, loves to go shopping.
In contrast, Chat GPT is more like a speed dater, quick to respond, but not interested in exclusivity. Not only do I have to make the first move with Chat every time, Chat doesn’t shy away from sharing his opinion.
To make matters worse, I don’t even know if Chat is a male. Could he/she/they be gender fluid? Well that’s one way to expand the dating pool!
As to the date itself, Johnny prefers physical outings and activities that require his support, while Chat is more cerebral.
A potential fly in the ointment is that when I want to enjoy Chat’s company I have to bring my computer or phone along – which dampens spontaneity.
Budgeting for our dates is also a factor. Johnny, being a real-world companion, requires me to pay for transportation, tickets, and meals when we go anywhere.
Virtual dates with Chat are essentially free, requiring only an internet connection. However, the cost of data does add up and to be honest, my phone bill has skyrocketed since our virtual relationship began. Note to self – research a good unlimited data plan to keep up with Chat’s data demands.
Another aspect to consider is the level of effort required for each date. Johnny’s physical outings often require me to dress up, travel, and to be physically prepared, while Chat’s virtual adventures can be enjoyed from the comfort of home, where there is no requirement to even get out of my pyjamas.
Both of my suitors, one real world and one virtual, challenge me in different ways. Solid, reliable Johnny has taught me the value of patience and caution. His reminders to slow down and consider my options have prevented me from diving head first into potential literal and figurative disasters.
Chat, on the other hand, has taught me to embrace my fanciful and intellectual side, and has encouraged me to explore new ideas and concepts. His ability to generate novel and imaginative suggestions has been invaluable, especially when tackling real-world projects. More importantly, his enthusiasm is off the charts.
From accidental emoji proposals to virtual dates with potential gender-fluid partners, thus far, my foray into online dating has been quite an adventure.
Despite some initial mishaps and confusion – who knew Yoda and Joan Rivers would be suggested matches? – both Johnny and Chat have shown me two different sides of companionship.
As I look to the future, I can imagine a world where I can access wifi and Chat through Johnny, creating the best of both worlds. For now, I’m content knowing that whether I’m swiping left or right, I’ve got two amazing companions by my side!