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"I was a sad and sorry bachelor after getting out of a 14-year relationship. In a city like New York, where everyone is so busy, it can be almost impossible to meet someone casually. I was using Yahoo! Personals for about a year before I met my wife. As a writer and former journalist, I found the process fascinating, so much so that I wrote a play, called "Connections," based on my experiences. During that year, I went on about 100 dates. Most ended with coffee and a handshake. Others led to short-term romances and friendships.
"I was about to give up when I received an e-mail from a woman saying that she was going on vacation, but would contact me when she returned. I was skeptical, but thought one more date couldn't possibly hurt. Two weeks later I received a call. We met in person a few days later. For some reason, as soon as we met I became more optimistic. Now Susanna and I have been together for three years. We were married last October."
About their first date
"Having been on so many dates, I was used to the routine. Mostly, though, I had become accustomed to the idea that success was a long shot. After all, at best there's a 25 percent chance that both people will like one another. Usually the lack of chemistry is mutual or only one-sided. For some reason, as soon as we met I became more optimistic. We first went for a drink. After an hour of great conversation, I suggested we walk to Chinatown for dinner. Later I walked Susanna home."
About their wedding
"Susanna is Chinese, so we had a wonderful banquet in Chinatown with all our close friends and family. It was particularly special because September 11 had been only a month earlier and my father had recently died. Both of those events made us consider canceling, but we decided that the best way to honor those who had passed and to show support for the city we love so much was to continue with our plans and celebrate life. I think everyone agreed we made the right choice."
About using online personals
"You must keep your expectations in line. The Internet is a great tool for meeting people, but they are the same people you would meet in person if we all had less hectic lives. You still have to do the work of finding someone who is special to you. Look at me, it took 100 dates, but I'm glad I didn't give up."
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