How did you meet him? Are you crazy? How do you know he's not a serial killer? Are you that desperate? Aren't the men around here good enough for you?

These are all questions I was asked when I met my first husband online back in 2000. The online dating scene was brand new and exciting to the young single people, yet terrifying and unconventional to the older generations who were positive young women meeting men online would end up in a bad situation. Well, I didn't die, but my journey was quite intense.

Many people may have had the same types of encounters I have had over the years as I traversed the ocean full of fish known as the online dating scene. However, many people are either too ashamed or too scared to voice their experiences. I am courageously taking this big step for all humankind so that future generations will understand the complexities of finding a partner online in the early 2000s and other souls who have had harrowing experiences hooking up with online dates will know they are not alone.

I am writing under a pen name so as to protect all innocent parties, including young family members. I have changed names and places so that we can remain safe. It is not my intention to hide behind my pen name in fear of judgment or critics but to protect my youngsters. I have courageously overcome many obstacles in life and am proud of myself for conquering my figurative demons to share my story with others who can benefit from the lessons I have learned on my journey.

If you too have experienced hardships or trauma through your online dating journey, I pray you find healing and the voice to speak out and share with others as well, so the world can understand and not judge those of us who are just seeking a connection of love.