Dating in high school is the simplest thing. You have eight hours everyday in a designated location to see and talk to whoever you want. Then you find yourself in college
In my mind, Illinois and Iowa aren’t so distant, and 240 miles doesn’t seem very far to a car, a plane or a bus, but to me it is.
Peoria to Cedar Falls isn’t an exciting drive, but after all the hours, things go back to how they were, just the two of us together. But that can’t last forever, and after two or three days I am driving back to Bradley alone.
I feel energized throughout the weeks between my visits. The fun and HuHot we shared eventually wears off, and it’s back to our own little worlds.
Staying connected in a long distance relationship is difficult, especially in tandem with the transition to college.
In a situation like this, it’s important to understand your love languages and work with your partner to fulfill everyone’s needs. For example, my partner and I both enjoy acts of service and quality time.
So, to get our quality time together we do work together, sort of like a body double just over FaceTime. Similarly, we have lunch or dinner together while video calling. We also like to use an online coloring book to work on something together while having fun.
It’s all just about creating those special moments through technology.
We replicate acts of service by being there for each other. Being available to talk about any day-to-day struggle or whatever else is just as important as hanging out together. Creating time for one another is our key to success.
While long distance is hard, if you are truly invested in your partner and willing to work together, the future you imagine is possible. Don’t give up because one day you will be together, having a date night every night rather than once every month or two.
