On Living Authentically

My Valentines Day post

This is my Valentines Day post to the new life partner I’m looking for. I’m sure you’re out there somewhere 😍.

It’s been 11 years since I lost my wife to breast cancer and I’m longing for a new soulmate.

Am I wanting my own needs to be met? For sure, that is only healthy and natural. However, for me a relationship is far more than satisfying my own needs. Relationships are as much about giving as receiving, and I have a lot to give a new partner… mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually (beyond religion).

Love is far more than a feeling… it entails respect, trust, integrity, being open, truly listening, accepting one another for who we are, along with practical care and support. True love offers freedom alongside having shared interests… allowing your partner to be themselves and pursue their own interests… this enriches a relationship rather than taking away from it.

I’ve been on a quite a few dates over the years but have yet to find a soulmate. I met a variety of women through online dating and can tell some very interesting stories! Mostly I’ve just been waiting… hoping that the ‘right woman’ will ‘just appear’. It has dawned on me that more radical action is required, hence this post.

I’m not wanting to rush into a new relationship. Entering a committed partnership takes time. Both people need to be ready before moving from one stage to the next. (If it turns out we’re not compatible, then parting respectfully is perfectly okay.)

A great way to begin is a coffee date. If there’s a potential spark more dates can follow. Getting to know one another is an essential foundation… sharing about our life journeys, experiences, values, interests, families and much more.

If a friendship develops that’s great. I’d love to have a female companion to spend time with and do things together.

If this leads to a romantic relationship that would be wonderful. This is when we can get to know one another on a whole new level and allow love to flourish.

If a deep, secure, committed lifelong partnership emerges that will be profoundly special and enable a whole new phase of life to begin for both of us.

Back to the start…

I’m sure there are many mature single women out there who long to be in a secure, loving relationship and are waiting for the ‘right man’ to come along. (Mature = mentally and emotionally mature, probably 55+.)

I’m 68, a retired engineer, and financially and domestically independent. My life centres on relationships… family and friends are high priority… I love listening to and encouraging others, sharing my own story, and talking about real life issues. I enjoy music, bushwalking, photography, electronics and technology and being creative… I love bringing ideas to life. I’m interested in current affairs and social justice. (If you want to know more check out the other articles here on my blog.)

If you are a mature single woman seeking a new partner and I’ve piqued your interest, be courageous and contact me via a Facebook pm or my blog email onlivingauthentically@gmail.com.

Here’s hoping!

Ian James
14/02/2026