Dear Abby: Am I crazy to think my online love is the real deal?

Dear Abby: I met a man from another country online last year. In the beginning, we talked every day via video chat. We have a lot in common. We never have trouble maintaining our conversations and pick up on each other’s emotions and needs without even trying.

Our communication is less frequent now that our relationship is maturing. With this new freedom from the phone, I’m beginning to wonder how wise it is to continue to pursue a future together. Although we have never met in person, I feel that he is trustworthy and absolutely wonderful.

The questions that are always in the back of my mind, though, are: Am I crazy to think this is the real deal? Is it too good to be true? And if I don’t pursue this further, am I missing my only chance at lasting love?

— Tied in Michigan

Dear Matched: This is not your “only” opportunity for lasting love. Whether this is the real deal or too good to be true remains to be seen. Because you found this match online, you need to be cautious. If possible, arrange to visit him in his country, which will give you the opportunity to meet his family and friends and observe his living situation. If it is genuine, it should be welcome. If he hesitates, look at it as a red flag.