Does absence really make the heart grow fonder?
There is much debate as to whether long-distance relationships will survive. Some would say that they tend to dwindle and fade with time, while others argue that it helps foster a stronger bond.
It is important to recognize that the success of a long distance relationship is contingent upon various circumstances and conditions, all of which should be clearly addressed in dialogue to achieve the highest rate of a success.
The first, and perhaps most disconcerting issue about being involved in a long-distance relationship, is the lack or lapse of physical nourishment. From the day we are born, we long for the warmth of another body; which can put stress on a relationship if there is not a mutual agreement as to the frequency of visits and length of time spent together.
In some instances, some partners agree to keep an open physical relationship; whereby physical exploration can ensue, so as long as the emotional component remains reserved to the relationship. To most, this can be a daunting thought, and it not to say it is for everyone, but if properly administered it can keep the relationship moving past any rudimentary hindrances such as physical needs.
A second condition that can stifle a long-distance relationship is learning to make time to stay connected. Adapting to time differences, and allotting time to talk about the things that you would have usually conversed about in an informal manner, can create a lot of stress on the relationship. Now forced to talk about the things you would have otherwise brushed over in casual dialogue, it can be quite exhausting to cover issues that you may have already moved beyond.
Scheduling is yet another deficiency to a long-distance relationship. It requires a strong will to cope with mix match schedules; when one person is out and about, the other may still be at work or even asleep. It is important to set aside time daily to check in, no different than what you should do if your partner lives close by.
With technological advancements, it is now easier than ever to stay in touch and see your loved one. While it does require an open mind to approach a relationship from this angle, and a strong will to see it through, long distance relationships can thrive just as long as both partners clearly share at all times what they need.
What Would Simeon Do?
Having been in numerous long-distance relationships in the past, it is fair for me to say that they are no walk in the park.
This type of relationship needs explicit dialogue as to how the relationship is to work, clearly defining: how physical needs are going to be fulfilled, how often you will see one another and who will do the traveling, and how you will stay connected daily, whether that be via phone or video conferencing.
While this may not be the most ideal situation for a relationship, sometimes it is all that is possible at the given moment; and if you truly care for that special someone, then you will go above and beyond to see it through.
