My Dear Friend,
When your best Friend Moves Away From You:
Whether your best friend moved states because her family moved or because of college, it is really hard to go through. I have experienced this both hands, I have moved away from home, and left all of my home best friends behind. I made new friendships, and then recently one of my college best friends moved to states to go to grad school. At our age, this is an ongoing thing because everyone is growing up, going their way in life, and finding new people. When moving away from a best friend, it takes a toll on a friendship. It makes it harder to stay in touch, and to continue the friendship you guys shared. The thing about friendships/best friendships is that If you are true friends then none of this will be a problem. Also with social media, and cellphones it makes everything easier for people to keep in touch. So how do we keep our friendships like they were before one person moved across the country or in another state? You make the effort.
1. How to make the effort:
Making the effort is probably one of the hardest parts, but at the end of the day if you want to talk to them, you will make time to do it. So first, talk to them as much as you can. I know it's totally hard with new schedules, maybe different time zones? Just do it. Text, snapchat, FaceTime, etc. Another cool thing that always helps, is your typical "phone date." I mean you always need your best friend, because lets face it, some people don't get you as much as your best friend does. What I would recommend next is, make the effort to visit them! So if they are a few hours away, drive. Go on a road trip, and bring your new friends. If they live across the country, that could be a little tough. You can always save up for a plane ticket or a road trip (depending on how long you are staying). You can always split the plane ticket cost as well, or if you're lucky your parents could pay/help you out with it. Seriously though, make the effort.
2. Have you ever thought to send stuff in the mail?
So I am very old fashioned, I love everything that people did "back in the day." Sending mail is a nice way to let your friends know, you are thinking of them. It is always a nice surprise to get a letter, or a little card. It would honestly make their day. My best friend and I send one another cards, photos, and small gifts. My favorite thing is sending gifts or things that remind me of that person. It's always fun to see what they say, and even though it is considered "old fashioned" because I know you can receive a text or a voice mail, it is a little way to send some love across the world.
3. Welcome To Long Distance Relationships:
Long distance friendships are just like long distance relationships. They are the exact same. When my best friend moved across the country, I knew it was the best choice for her. Supporting the people you love, is one of the most important things, in any relationship. The best way long distance friendships work is when both people make the effort, you will eventually see one another, and get used to your new everyday life.
Having best friends live far away from you is going to be hard, but I promise your friendship will pick right back up where you left off. That's one thing I love about my friends, we won't have to see one another for the longest time, and everything will be the same when we finally do. Make the effort, and find time for them. Most important, don't forget them. Remember. They were there for you all the time, before they/maybe you moved. Happy Long Distance Friendships, trust me, when you are true friends, nothing will pull you two apart.
