How Modern Communications Closing the Distance Gap - A Personal Account

From mail order brides of the 1800's to online dating and mobile texting communities of the 2000's, modern communication is bringing together more people than ever. But is it for real?

As communicating becomes more creative and convenient all the time, meeting people has never been easier and excuses for keeping in touch are running out. With texting games and communities gaining in popularity, the world is getting smaller and it is no longer rare to hear someone say they have friends around the country or even the world.

But what happens when you find more than friendship? Can you fall in love without having met someone face to face?

In my case, the answer is yes.

What started as a mobile game to occupy our time led into a meaningful and purposeful friendship that is blossoming into love. For my 'virtual' boyfriend and I, having over two-thousand miles between us has become a challenge, not a problem. Challenges are overcome able. Problems create stumbling blocks. Visits don't happen more than every couple months, but they are worth the wait, and with T-mobile to T-mobile minutes and texting in between, we are thankful for every chance we get.

So how do you cope with the distance? So far, increased talk time on the phone, texting, email, letters and packages have carried us far. More than anything, communication is number one. When we can't be in some form of contact, we feel left out. You can't just leave your partner hanging in suspense for ever. A little time out of your play time to send a quick text goes a long way to making you feel connected even when you are far apart.

Maybe long distance relationships can be tough, but anything worth while takes time and work. Is love any different? Planning your joint future and sharing your hopes and dreams solidify your efforts. Make time to have serious talks, but have fun, too! Setting dates on the calendar to work towards getting together, help you see an end to the distance.

From my experience, long distance has many pros that you don't find in a typical relationship. Without the strains of always having to look 'pretty' you are free to concentrate on the dynamics of the relationship and not be bogged down with pettiness. You can be yourself, you can be honest, and in the end you learn more about yourself, as well as your partner, than you ever thought possible!

With patience, honesty, trust and communication, you can make a wonderful experience out of a potentially difficult situation!