Live, and let live. Lack of both vanity and narcissism can do wonders - such transparency is well desired, especially by women - so I have been told.

For consenting adults, dating is pretty normal and socially acceptable. I think it is quite healthy in building viable social skills with the opposite sex. At least, this is how it works in a global context - more so in open free societies. I am sure that there is one out there that fits your bill.

Anyone who has had some serious relationships will say that they are very complex, and they need to be appreciated in order to make them work. In my opinion, it is better to keep 'going out' well enough to understand your partner, and eventually move in together to get to know even better (not necessarily intimacy) before the wedding invitation goes out - in terms of habitual tendencies, attitude, lucidity etc. - anything that gives you a little more assurance that you are able to live the rest of your life with this person. And yes, praise (not criticism) with an open mind helps.

There is definitely a culture clash - and most everyone goes through them. When hanging out with your non-nepali male colleagues from work - intermingle with them, and get their views on the subject - it will only help you to understand from a different point of view.

If you are unable to date before you tie the knot, and if you believe that your thinking above is what makes the world turn then just find a partner who would be in awe with everything you do. And nothing else will matter. You will get what you want. And your views are forever gone. Everyone is happy.

When it comes to finding a soul mate - do what works for you - if all else fails start on a clean slate and look beyond race, religion, politics, family, cultural, past relationships and material possessions, and ask yourself these questions: Does she make me happy? Does she understand me well? Does her affinity for intellect make me comfortable? Is she there when I need her? Is her insecurity well cared for? How does she act when she meets your friends and co-workers? Does she compromise and meet you in the middle during arguments? Etc. Notice how this is free from all the baggage that I said to look beyond from - a partner's celibacy has nothing to do with compatibility - only selfish and hubris tendencies will make you think in such a way.

To each his own.

-JB