I agree with your assessment of the apps. No offense taken. A friend of mine calls it ‘shopping’ and that’s how it feels. I don’t like it much and I only use it as a secondary means to meet someone. I know several couples who met on the apps so I know it can happen.

I’d rather meet someone organically for the reasons you listed. I’ve joined hiking groups, pickleball groups, taken dance lessons, attended networking events, and engaged many other activities that sound fun to me. None have resulted in meeting someone, but I continue to do them because I enjoy them. I’ve taken myself out to a nice place for dinner and sat in the bar area to eat. Most of the time there are only couples seated there with me.

I’ve decided to just live my life and continue to get out and engage in activities that interest me. If I meet someone—awesome! If not, I’m still having fun.

Thank you for thoughtful comment, Arpad.