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Need A Little Romance In Your Life?
A wise person once said that everyone walks two paths in life. One is our individual path, where we struggle to define who we are and nurture our unique skills and talents. The second is our social path, the part of our lives we share with family, friends and lovers. Both are essential to our growth as human beings.
Romance is a key part of our social path. Without romance our lives lack color, excitement and substance. Which is not to say that we need to be in a romantic relationship at all times. Many people find great fulfillment in their periods of being single, and bring more to a relationship because they aren't dependent on a romantic partner to give their lives meaning.
So what is romance in the 21st century?
The outer trappings may have changed, but the essence of romance is the same as it was in the time of Romeo and Juliet, Antony and Cleopatra or Tristan and Isolde. Romance is the ability of a lover, spouse or partner to make the other person feel special, unique among their gender, and the only one with the key to their lover's heart. This quality of 'specialness' is the key to romantic behavior. No one wants to feel they're in a relationship until their partner finds someone better, prettier, wealthier or more exciting.
Romance can blossom at a first meeting or grow over time. There are no formulas for igniting romance but there are a number of ways you can nurture it in a relationship. Romance can mean different things to different people. It can include flowers and chocolate or intimate conversations deep into the night. People in love enjoy feeling connected, sharing silly gifts, speaking a special language, spending time staring into each other's eyes, or finishing each other's sentences.
Each person has a different definition of romance, which can change according to the person they're currently involved with. A rough and ready construction worker can discover his gallant side when he falls in love with a woman who cherishes champagne and flowers. A die-hard pragmatist can turn into a blushing schoolgirl when her new husband presents her with a dozen long-stemmed red roses.
While Hollywood has a lot to answer in terms of distorting our expectations about romance, the best movies capture the magical quality of a true connection between two people.
This site pulls together information on romance from all over the web. Here are some of the highlights:
 Dating
In earlier times we met our partners in clearly defined and socially acceptable ways. We employed matchmakers, we participated in arranged marriages, we were introduced by friends and family, and occasionally we met by chance. As society became more liberated, we frequented bars and other social gatherings looking for Mr. or Ms. Right - or simply a one-night stand.
In the 21st century dating agencies, personals columns and Internet dating have all exploded in popularity. We're busy people, the usual haunts don't appeal or yield great results, so we've employed these modern versions of a matchmaker. Although this time around, the power to choose resides firmly with us.
Click here to find the best online dating services.
Romantic Tips
Romance can sweep you to the highest peaks or fling you into the deepest depths of despair.
If you want to keep your relationship functioning at the positive end of the scale, visit our romantic tips page.
Romantic Getaways
Sometimes you just need to get away from familiar surroundings to sort out a problem with your partner. Put aside your daily habits and associations and recapture the connection.
Visit our romantic travel page for ideas on a romantic getaway.
Romantic Gifts
No matter how down to earth your partner is, people always respond to gifts, especially unexpected ones. Choosing the right gift for the right occasion is an art which can be learned.
Visit our romantic gifts page to find the right choice for your special someone.
Valentine's Day
This special day for lovers dates back centuries yet it has never been so popular. Perhaps we need a little old-fashioned romance and chivalry to remind us of what's important.
Discover the origins of Valentine's Day and how to celebrate it in the 21 century.
Weddings
For most couples, the most pivotal moment in their relationship is when they say "I do". Weddings can be a magical event, a comedy of errors, an outright disaster, or something in between.
Here are some wedding tips to make your wedding the fairytale you've always dreamed of.
Relationships
When you lose your way and you're ready to walk out the door, you may need professional help. Few people can be objective about their own relationship problems. While you may feel comfortable seeing a counselor, you can still get excellent advice from books and tapes.
Here are some great relationships resources for getting over the hump.
So grab your favorite drink and settle in for an interesting journey.
Here's to romance in the 21st century!
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