They say that distance makes the heart grow fonder, but I often wonder: Is that really true? Or does the distance between us and a loved one make us more possessive or quick to judge? I personally think that there is something dividing us in how men and women deal with distance differently.
First-year college students may be starting to feel the anxiety of being apart from their significant other for the first time. I came into college already having a long-term boyfriend and have been given numerous amounts of advice on what to do next. Should I break up with him, or should I not? Should I have done it before coming to college to give myself a new start? So many questions swirling through my head coming from so many people and I stop and wonder if any other girls are feeling the same way as I am.
I asked a few people how they felt about long distance and what the cons are with it and no one seemed to know exactly, seeing as it’s only week three of college. However, the common key to success in a long-distance relationship is communication.
And I agree, I think that communication is a big factor in keeping a relationship together no matter how far away they are. Whether for good or for bad this seems to be a priority for most and a saving grace. In this day and age, communication should be the easiest thing to do seeing as we have apps like Snapchat and FaceTime. But FaceTime doesn’t make up for actual face time. This may lead to some tension. And I’ve been there before. A quick solution may be to simply plan out a date for the visits, which will give you both something to look forward to and be excited for. Having something such as a date to look towards will get you thinking about the future and the anticipation for those days rather than the small hills that you’re trying to climb everyday.
I’ve also learned myself just how important a “good morning” and “good night” text is, not only for your significant other but for your family too. It shows that you are thinking about them and it gives you both a chance to end the day on a positive note. It may seem meaningless but to them it may mean the world that you took time out of your already busy schedule to text or call them. If you really want to show them that you’re thinking about them, maybe you can send them a care package, I don’t know anyone that has ever said no to a t-shirt or maybe some Insomnia cookies.
It is important to not become jealous. If they’re not giving you reasons to be jealous, then don’t be. Also, don’t become possessive or stalkerish. No one ever fell in love and married a stalker on purpose so don’t check their location 24/7.
At the end of the day, just be happy and appreciative of one another and remember that this distance isn’t going to last forever. You’re here to do great things, so have fun and make the most of college.
Rachel Laher is an undecided freshman studying at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk to Rachel? Email her nw422218@ohio.edu.
