NORMA JEAN: I Love Paris!

Plenty of folks out there are jaded about finding a significant other; not to mention all the negative attitudes about using Personals to do so. I assure you, I receive letters and hear stories about those who do "get lucky" through Personals. A buxom blonde woman came into my office one afternoon with this story: "I answered a "Variations" ad from a man advertising a 'trip to Europe for right woman.' We spoke twice by phone; one three-hour and one six-hour conversation, before meeting ...When I walked into the lounge at The Rancher's Club, a very public place where I felt very comfortable, we locked eyes instantly, and I can't even remember anyone else who was in the lounge that night. After one date, he asked me to accompany him to Europe. We ended up having one of those dreamy, romantic vacations people read about but don't believe can happen to them. This man is a successful physician, 32, very handsome, tall, intelligent and willing to make magic with someone. Everything is attitude ... everything ... You have to be non-judgmental, very open, positive, and willing to be kind. I mean, we are so in touch with each other it is unbelievable!He received only three responses from his ad. One woman was unwilling to meet him because he was 'divorced,' and it didn't feel right. Another was a grad student 'just curious' about who would place this kind of an ad.I've been an executive in advertising for 10 years, and had experienced a five-year abusive relationship. It had been almost two years since meeting anyone significant when I decided to answer this one ad. Here I was, 35, and wishing for a significant other. The man whose ad I answered wanted to find that chemistry and go for a fantasy: foreign travel, excellent champagne, a charming hotel, lovemaking, long walks and talks, and we did just that! I even met his family. It's been eight months now and the love keeps growing, even though we live separately. I didn't need a man to take me to Europe, I don't need a man to support me, so the love is not tainted by some sugar daddy deal. You know, it's like we're absolute equals! Not a day passes when we don't tell each other the level of appreciation we feel for one another. It does get a little corny, though, making my friends want to puke, but they're happy for me.If you let yourself become bitter and hide out, this kind of thing will never happen. You've got to be the best person you can be, and be willing to make a change. I've been able to let go of all of the fear. Thank you personals!"