Making it Work

by Elcie
(Ohio)

I'm in a long distance relationship right now.

If two people really want to make this sort of thing work, and they are really compatible and willing to sacrifice, it can work.

If either person has doubts, it won't.

The biggest factors are communication, faith and trust. You have to talk as often as possible, and don't make a big to-do about it every time.

Make it casual like you normally would.

A funny text here, an IM there, a letter every couple of weeks.

And...

...Don't talk on the phone every day.

You don't want things to get awkward, because if you're apart for so long and you tell each other your stories every day eventually you'll run out of things to talk about...

Because...

...First of all, life gets boring.

...Second of all you don't have any recently shared experiences and you'll run out of old ones.

Keep your phone conversations to every few days or whatever works for you.

Remember that you can't force something great--if it's not working just concede and move on.

Remember that sweet gestures are always welcome--they let your significant other know that they're on your mind even when they least expect to be.

And guys, don't forget the a simple "I miss you".

Don't say it if you don't mean it, and ALWAYS say it when you're starting to feel it.

Enjoy your time off from each other, and build some anticipation for the future!