To: Nevada Love, Texas

We’ve never lived in the same city.

Some days we can only talk for a few moments that whole week. And yet, this is the only real relationship I have ever had. The saying is true:

The healthiest relationships will challenge you the most.

When we decided to give our long-distance relationship a chance, I’ll admit it, I wasn’t entirely sure how it would work. We had been friends for 2 years prior to dating. But we had something we just had to explore despite the different states we resided in. Our pasts, as individuals with big hearts, were completely littered with the worst of the worst in the dating world. From lies, manipulation, and turmoil to gaslighting, mental and emotional abuse, and the constant judgement from the people we chose to love, he and I had one major thing in common that not many can say they truly have: God. When something or someone comes from God you won't have to search for it. And 

what's meant for you will stay without you having to force it. 

We both weren't looking for another relationship. Yet when we reconnected after a two-year hiatus to grow and work on ourselves, it was an instant connection that picked right back up from where it left off as if time hadn't passed. Facebook messages and texts turned into plane tickets and the most memorable dates one could imagine. I mean, c'mon, who has their first date in a completely different state?! Me. And let me tell you how exhilarating it is to know someone deliberately chooses you. Purposely seeks out to make your life better. To add joy and happiness to it. It's such a rush to know someone is made for you. You'll never be too much for them. You'll never have to dim your light for them. You've found your match. Your counterpart. Your reflection.

 

Fast forward to today and we are juggling different schedules, time zones, career goals, and the subtle yet familiar ache that comes from not being able to hold the person you love every day. Along the way, I have learned more about love, patience, and the importance of communication than I expected to.

Patience Isn’t Just Waiting — It’s Active

I used to think patience meant quietly counting the days until our next visit. Now I know it means choosing each other, even when life gets messy. Even when the Wi-Fi lags during our only video call that week. Even when all I want is a hug and what has to suffice is the cutest selfie ever.

Patience in long-distance love isn’t passive — It’s intentional.

It’s replying with kindness when you’re tired. It’s remembering you’re on the same team, even when the distance feels like a wall.

Real Communication Isn’t Just Frequent — It’s honest.

We don’t text constantly. We don’t video call every day.

And yet, I feel more emotionally connected than I ever did in past “in-person” relationships or even relationships in my own city.

Why?

Because we’ve learned to talk. To listen. To say, “I feel lonely today,” without feeling guilty. To say, “I need time to myself,” without fear if that's what I need.

I am safe here. I am safe with him.

Distance made us realize how easy it is to take communication for granted — and how powerful it can be when you don’t. So, when you're in an LDR you know your person is choosing to be with you for a reason.

Small Gestures Matter More Than Grand Ones

A random “Thinking of you” message during the day

A surprise video made with love.

Waking up to "Good morning, beautiful" text.

These things matter more than expensive gifts or dramatic gestures. When you’re apart, the little things are the relationship. They’re proof that even when you’re busy, even when you’re far away, you’re still choosing each other.

Missing Someone Can Be a Form of Love, Too

I used to hate the feeling of missing them. Now I’ve started to see it differently.

Missing someone means you have someone worth missing.

It means you care.

It means love is still alive, still growing — even across hundreds of miles.

It’s not always fun. But it’s beautiful in its own way.

The Right Person Makes the Distance Worth It

Not every long-distance relationship works. But when you’re with someone who makes you feel seen, understood, and supported — even from afar — you realize that love isn’t about geography.

It’s about presence.

Effort. Growth.

Trust and grace — lots of it.

Final Thoughts

I don’t romanticize long-distance love. It’s hard. It can be lonely. And it's not for everyone. But, if your end goal is a happy and healthy marriage, long distance is temporary compared to a lifetime with your person. It’s going from courtship to covenant. It’s worth it all.

Long distance relationships tests you in ways you didn’t expect. But it also teaches you things. 

About love. 

About yourself. 

About what it means to truly show up for someone.

I’m still learning. Still growing. But one thing’s certain — this distance has brought us closer than I ever thought possible. And I am so thankful for the man I get to spend my life with.

—

 

Central Standard Time Zone,

 

Andrea