Most people cringe when I tell them that I'm in a long-distance relationship. They seem to think it's completely impossible to have a relationship that lacks physicality for long periods of time. Trust me, I'm not saying it's easy by any means. I'm the biggest lover of hugs and holding hands and all that jazz, but being in an LDR constantly reminds me that there is so much more to a fulfilling relationship.
This one goes out to my fellow friends in LDRs. Here are nine reasons why you should love your long-distance relationship.
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1. You two communicate better than most couples
If you are currently in an LDR and have been for quite some time, your communication skills are more than likely better than most because that's literally all you can do. When you're apart, you're forced to talk. If you don't, well, you probably won't be in a relationship much longer. Communication is key to making an LDR work, and chances are you both have found a talking routine that works for you.
2. Did someone say care packages?
Ah, yes. One of my favorite things. My boyfriend and I absolutely LOVE sending care packages because it's just a great way to remind each other that we are thinking of one another. Who doesn't love a package that's filled with goodies picked out especially for them?
3. Love letters
Love letters are right up there with care packages. Whether it be a sweet card or a handwritten note, everyone in an LDR loves getting these in the mail. They're romantic and definitely not as appreciated in today's world, so be sure to cherish those personal letters written just for you!
4. Creative "date nights"
Since you can't physically go out on a date, you have to use your imagination a little more than the regular couple. Whether it be going out to get the same kind of food so you can share it together on Skype, or watching the same movie on Netflix while you're on FaceTime, your dates are special because you're trying to make everything normal. I love the fact that I can look back on my Valentine's Day date and remember eating Taco Bell in a nice dress with my sweet boyfriend on Skype. It might not be normal to others, but it is those who can't be together in person.
5. You always have someone to call
While it would be nice to be able to go over and knock on their door, it's comforting knowing that you always have someone to call when no one else is around. You're in a relationship so you would probably call them anyways, but it's nice to have that security of always have someone who wants to listen.
6. You learn to not fight over petty things
Going back to #1, you most likely communicate fairly well with one another. This results in not wanting to waste time fighting over stuff that really isn't ever going to matter. You might only have 30 minutes to talk with them, so you are definitely not going to waste time by be ticked off over something dumb. He didn't notice you tried to make your hair look nice? Well, the WiFi connection probably sucks, am I right? No time to sweat the small stuff.
7. You've seen each other at your worst AND best
This can obviously be for all couples, not just long-distance, but I find this to be especially true since time on FaceTime/Skype is limited. If we only have a few minutes to talk and I happen to still be in my pajamas with no makeup on, you best believe that's what he's going to see. Don't get me wrong, my boyfriend and I always send Snapchats to one another when we know we look our best. However, we always end the day by bumming it up over FaceTime before we say goodnight.
8. Countdowns are fun
You know you check that countdown app a zillion times a day because you just can't wait to see your favorite person again! Once the countdown gets to 30, I always freak out. Always. Don't even get me started on single digits.
9. The distance won't last forever
If there had to be only one reason to love your LDR, it should definitely be this one. If you are meant to last, the distance will come to a close one day. The Skype dates will turn into real-life ones and the FaceTime goodnights will become real goodnight kisses. When that distance finally disappears, you will always be grateful that you did what everyone thought was a tad bit crazy. All the days spent apart will be so worth it when you can say "see you soon" and it means 10 minutes...not 10 weeks. Be patient. Be strong in the relationship you've built, and keep leaning on one another long after that countdown hits "zero."
