I've met up with people online for different reasons. Mixed results, of course. More often than not, people weren't who they said they were online (wrong picture, wrong description) or, after hanging out for a few moments, it felt way too uncomfortable. Nowadays, I feel like I've developed this sixth sense about people online. You get a good feel for who's a genuinely nice, down-to-earth honest person out there versus the Photoshoppers, the weirdos, and the insane. Even now, I still stay on my toes.
Thankfully though, I have made quite a few "friends," for lack of a better word. One thing that still gives me faith in chatting and meeting online is the quality of the bond that can come from some people. I have a few regular chat buddies that, if they lived here, would be dear, close friends of mine. These are the guys and girls I try to keep up with on a regular basis, look forward to IMing, and -- dare I say -- catch myself thinkin' about 'em, wondering if they're doing alright and they're safe. While it is regretful that these online folks are so scattered across the country, at the same time, it's comforting and a bit satisfying to know that I've got friends all over the place who care about me and are cared about in return.