Last month I wrote Tips for Making Long-Distance Dating Easier: Part 1. Now that you’re up to date, today we’re ready to jump into part two!
Indulge your sentimental side
Physical tokens of love (i.e. a watch or a necklace) are a really nice way to make your partner feel close to you as they go about daily life. Likewise, sweet photos and videos of/with your partner can be an absolute lifeline when you’re really missing them and a call isn’t practical right then (i.e. when it’s 3am their time and you just need to hear their voice).
My husband Jacques and I took hundreds of photos and a bunch of videos when we were together. I watched them all so much I pretty much had them memorised. If one of you is feeling down or has an occasion coming up, it can be nice to record a new video and send it to the other person.
Trust your partner
I know from experience that it’s possible to have a whole two-year long-distance relationship without experiencing one second of doubt in the other person’s intentions or fidelity. If you don’t trust this person, why are you pursuing a future with them? Enough said.
Get on the same page about future plans
If you’ve reached that impasse where neither of you is willing to relocate, your situation is admittedly somewhat sticky. The best part about long-distance is when it comes to an end (and you’re together, not broken up!) so if possible, plan an end date to help you stay positive and hopeful.
If that isn’t possible right now, at least make sure that one of you is willing to relocate and make sure your future plans and goals for your lives and relationships are relatively similar.
If you’re facing an obstacle that is out of your control (like a visa or parental approval), pray and trust that if God wants you together, He will make a way in His timing.
Let’s end with a well-known scripture that can apply beautifully to so many situations in life: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight (Proverbs chapter 3, verses 5 and 6, NIV)”.
All the best with this journey you’re on with God and the special person in your life! Lean on Jesus and He will show you what He wants you to do.
Lil van Wyngaard is a staff writer for a Melbourne based stationery company. She also blogs on the side and has her first book in the drafting stages (planning to submit for publication later this year). Lil is an extrovert and loves entertaining at her home with her husband Jacques, and can often be found reading or at the gym. She is a content creator/marketer, educated at Deakin University and also has a passion for all types of dance. Lil worships at New Gen City Church and is involved in youth and young adult ministry with her husband.