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Ending an on-line romance is really much easier than ending a real-time romance, because you are not expected nor required to do it in person. Assuming that the romance has not moved beyond the on-line stage (since it would no longer be an "on-line" romance at that point), you obviously end it on-line. How you phrase it depends entirely upon the reason you are ending it.

We all have criteria that our romantic partners need to meet, as well as "deal breakers" that mean the automatic end of the romance.

If your reason for ending the romance is due to a deal-breaker, you needn't do more than send a simple "Thanks for the good times, but this is no longer working for me" message. The recipient will most likely know full well why they are receiving it, and probably won't be particularly disappointed. If they try to continue the relationship, simply tell them that you no longer wish to communicate with them. If they still insist on pursuing it, you can block them from sending you messages.

If you're ending the romance for reasons other than a "deal-breaker," you should give a reason. For example, if you have met someone "real-time" and have decided to end the on-line romance because of it, be honest. If you have simply become bored with the romance, you might want to soften your reason a little bit by saying something along the lines of "I have enjoyed our romance but am now finding that I need to devote my time and energy to "real-time" endeavors." If they do not immediately accept your reason for ending the romance, you may elaborate a bit, but under no circumstances do you owe them a long, detailed explanation. Remember, it is an on-line romance, not a ten-year marriage!

In any case, you should always be gracious and kind, remembering that the other person is human and has feelings. Even if you don't think they deserve to be treated well, how you behave is a reflection on you, not them, so treat them with dignity and respect.

Learn more about this author, Gena Reddoch.
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