Rachel Roth, Spring 2009 Staff Writer
The last time I saw my boyfriend James, it cost me $467.38. He is in his second year of graduate school at the University of South Florida, and I am at Pierce College, finishing up my associate degree.
I imagine I’m not the only student at Pierce involved in a long-distance relationship. Many of us will move on to colleges across the state or throughout the country, and some of us may decide to study abroad. Our college experience also coincides with a time in our lives when we are mature enough to have meaningful, long-term relationships.
What do we do when the person we love decides to transfer to San Francisco State? Or, in my case, 3,000 miles away? How does a relationship work when you can’t see each other? Is love and the possibility of a lifelong partnership worth the strain distance might cause?
We decided it was, but it takes effort. Gone is the spontaneity that proximity provides. I can no longer surprise him in the library with coffee when he studies all night and we don’t get to watch “The Office” together. Most importantly, when we fight, “I’m sorry” must suffice, but it can’t replace the comfort and reassurance physical contact provides.
The distance between us has also made us stronger, and, in an odd way, closer. Communication is paramount in any relationship and when all you have are your words, you learn to use them well.
Every relationship requires trust, but it is especially important when your significant other socializes without you on a regular basis. I can say, without hesitation or doubt, that I completely trust my boyfriend. It isn’t fun to sleep alone, but I sleep easier knowing that.
Long-distance relationships are also more feasible because of technology. Cell phones make it easy for us to be in constant contact. I would love a kiss to wake me up in the morning, but a thoughtful text is a decent substitute.
E-mail is also responsible for the success of my relationship. I’ve found that we express ourselves more freely over letters. The security e-mail provides allowed me to overcome my fear of being vulnerable. I learned to share my deepest thoughts, secrets and soul over the Internet. Now, I don’t need to hide behind a computer screen to tell him that I care about him.
I am also very thankful that Steve Jobs decided to put a web camera in every MacBook. I get to see my James more often as a result.
I appreciate every second I get to spend with my boyfriend. I am no longer guilty of taking the person I love the most for granted. A long-distance relationship is far from ideal, but it is, thankfully, only temporary.
Rachel Roth ()