Love 101

They say absence makes the heart grow fonder. I know what you’re thinking: you hate cliches. But sometimes those little sayings are more than just cute phrases found on pillows and in fortune cookies. Many of us are in long distance relationships and, if you have ever found yourself in one, you live and die by cliches. But you have to ask yourself, can the distance between a loved one help or hurt a relationship? In the long run do the miles apart really bring two people that much closer together?

I have varying ideas on long distance relationships. So, let me first say that I am not saying that they don’t work. I know many people who have made long distance relationships work and many of them say that when they did finally come together, the distance helped them not only evaluate their relationship, but themselves. However, dating across miles are almost like belly rings, they just aren’t for everyone. So here are some helpful tips for making the distance work.

First of all, communication is key. I use this phrase constantly because it is so important for a healthy relationship. Since you are miles away from your significant other, the lines of communication become even more important when there is no longer any face to face contact.

Second, you must always come to a compromise. A relationship is like a business and it is all about give and take. So if you drive miles to visit your loved one, it is only fair that they do the same.

And finally, keep an open mind. I know this isn’t news, but men think differently from women, therefore we love differently as well. So try to understand where your loved one is coming from. If they are having difficulty maintaining the relationship, don’t go on the defensive. Open your ears along with your heart and try to really see where they are coming from before you make any major decisions.

Like I said before, long distance relationships aren’t for everyone. But you never get a second chance at real love. So if you feel that your relationship is worth the long drives, countless hours on the phone and care packages filled with photos and candy, then by all means, go for it. Though you may be miles apart, your hearts do not have to be.

Desiree welcomes any questions and comments you may have. Feel free to email her at colonnade@gc&su.edu.

Posted by Colonnade Archives on Sep 10 2004. Filed under Other. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry