Maintaining a Long Distance Marriage

With the rising number of troops being deployed overseas, many couples may find themselves struggling to maintain their long distance marriage. In any case, it may be difficult. Regardless of why you and your spouse are miles apart, maintaining that connection can be done.

Be honest. Honesty isn't always easy, especially when someone is miles away and you don't want to hurt their feelings but it's crucial to any relationship.

Don't jump to conclusions. A lot of marriages go bad because of this. Maybe they didn't call or IM when he or she said that they would because they couldn't.

Show genuine interest in what is going on in your spouse's life. It doesn't matter how boring you may feel something is, if it's of importance to your spouse it should be of importance to you.

Treat your spouse as though they were home. Talk to them as you would at any other time. This can be hard to do depending on the circumstances but being away from home is what they miss.

Communicate your feelings. It's hard being away from the people that you love. It can make the most secure person have doubts. Always let them know how you truly feel.

Keep your own identity and life. Wrapping yourself up and pining because your spouse is away is not healthy. It also adds to the relationship by giving you something to talk about with your spouse.

Do include your spouse in the decision making process. Just because they are not there does not mean that they should not have a say. Your choices can and will have an affect on both of your lives.

Stay in touch with the in laws. Many times when we fail to do this, it causes a rift within the family. Your partner's family is now yours.

Stay in contact. Even if you can't always talk on the phone, send letters. Let your spouse know what is going on in everyone's life. Keep them in the loop.

Keep the romance alive. A love letter, a call of endearment, whatever you choose. The romantic element is a part of your marriage.

The most important part of maintaining a long distance relationship is love and respect. Showing respect for your spouse is crucial no matter how close or far that they may be. Always let them know how much you care. Your long distance marriage can work.