Long Distance Relationships

Posted by: Rachel Johnson

As of September 9, I will have officially been in a long distance relationship for two years. (Yes, you can send me a gift.) In fact, my relationship started with distance, although we had developed a friendship together in school. I was interning in New York for a summer, and he came to visit for a couple of days. This time was so special because we were both reassured of how much we liked each other and that we definitely wanted to make things official once I returned from my internship.

Fast forward two years and I'm here in Chattanooga while he travels the country on a music tour with a few "off" days during the week. He resides in Nashville, so, thankfully, our distance is a mere two hours, but the cons of being in a relationship with someone "on the road" mean you have to specifically plan for the day when you can spend time together. However, most musicians have gigs on the weekends, leaving quality time to a weeknight after I'm off work at 5 p.m. I say all of this to give a small glimpse into the level of complication that can easily arise.

At the end of the day, however, no planning, complication, or time change affects the way that I feel about him. Don't get me wrong, all relationships, no matter the location, take work; however, it can be tough to not have your boo around to be your wedding date or attend a super cool event with you. Sometimes, no matter how much fun you can be having out with your friends, you just wish he (or she) was there to be enjoying the moment with you. But while you're missing your significant other, you can get creative and add some spice to the distance. I wanted to share some tips to making your long distance relationships exciting and fun!

1. Phone dates

This isn't super creative but it is crucial to making your relationship work. Set aside time where you plan to catch up with each other's days. This is your quality time together that can be the most special time of the day. If you're able, I'd also suggest to FaceTime with each other. For me, I talk to him briefly when he wakes up, before he plays a show/after I get off work and before bed. Later is better for both of us because we can focus on each other knowing the distractions of the day are over.

2. Notes and pictures

I'm a sucker for a handwritten note. It's heartfelt and shows that time was spent solely being focused on you. I love the app, Felt. It's a digital letter app that allows you to send cards and pictures to anyone via snail mail. My boyfriend has a picture of me he keeps with him that I sent through this app.

3. Focus on each other

When you're able to spend time together in person, give your love all of your attention. Aka lay off social media and actually enjoy the conversation and the time that you're able to spend together. Surprise them by cooking dinner, paying for the date or giving a little, thoughtful gift. This time is special, and remember to treat them the way that you desire to be treated.

4. Be intentional

This ties into the other points, but show that person that you are intentionally thinking about them. throughout the day. Whether it's an encouraging text, a cute Snapchat or a meaningful Instagram post, affirm them through the power of technology since you're not always able to in person.

5. Pray together

Last but most important, take time to pray for and with your significant other. This is a little more personal, but every night before bed, me and my bf pray together on the phone. It's such a deep and powerful time in which we are able to give our relationship right back to God. He controls our lives, our future and our relationship.

What are some tips to making your long distance relationship work?

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