Actually, I don't have an issue with properly conducted Internet romance. If you actually believe in the concept of a "soul mate", what are the chances that your soul mate (out of the 6 Billion people in the world), the ONE person with whom you connect on all levels, happens to be at your very same college, or your grocery store, or your church, or the local nightclub?
What I think the Internet has done is enabled people to look beyond their local geographic environment to find a mate. And how is that inherently suspect? Are there people who are loonies, freaks and weirdoes on line? Of course. There may even be more than you might talk to at the church, grocery store or college. But there are weirdoes and loonies, liars and thieves at those locations too (haven't we all met or dated a few of them?
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I have seen many horror stories with Internet romance, so I think that it should be used with caution, as most other dating environments. I also have a sinking suspicion, though, that many folks who have had several horrible experiences on the Internet are some of the same ones who have a difficult time deciphering the maze in the old-fashioned romance world too.
I'm not knocking anyone's feelings on it. For example, I have traditionally had an issue with using the "personal ads" for finding a mate. However, since I've seen couples who are just as satisfied and happy using this method as those who've met through the local Walgreen or family friend, I won't negate the method either. I agree that you need to be patient, be positive and work on yourself before you work on anyone else.
Just my thoughts.