Meeting People

Why does it seem so difficult to meet new, interesting people?

And how do people meet outside of work, school or hobbies?

Seems like almost everyone is on the personals now, everyone except the interesting people I am interested in meeting...

And what about those friendship/networking sites, Fropper, MySpace, Ryze, Care2, etc.? Yes, I have 'met' some interesting folks, who I share similar interestes with, spread all across the country & world. I am not against virtual friendships, but you know, they are so 'virtual'.

What about the old fashioned aspect of spending time with another human being in real time, in real life?

A friend of mine shelled out like $1500 to join a dating club called "It's Just Lunch", then he pays for the dates, flowers, etc., another $30 - $50 each. And so far, he is still single.

Maybe we could all wear some identifying badge or something that would say, "I am shy, please introduce yourself to me" or "I'm single & looking if you are single & sexy" or "New friends wanted" or "Vacancy - apply within."

When I go to social functions, I am generally too shy to go up to people & introduce myself. And what if those interesting people I see across the room are just as shy as I am? I don't want to hold my breath hoping they will get the courage to come over.

If I do get the courage to introduce myself to someone new, just what exactly do I say? I mean, telling someone they seem interesting enough to cause a reserved person like myself to approach them uninvited would be honest - but would it be well received?

Hmmmm... We'll see once I try it out.