I have heard countless times that long distance relationships (LDRs) are doomed to failure. Yes, an LDR is difficult, but for me, it would be less painful to be in a relationship with you that spans across states than not to be with you at all.

I hate having to wait until we are together to watch our Netflix shows, but we both know that I would be mad if you watched ahead of me. I guess Luke Cage will just have to wait until spring break.

Every time I get a text from you, it is exciting. Obviously, this does not apply when we are in the same state because our texts usually contain a grocery list, but during the school year, your personalized text tone always brings a smile to my face.

You come up in my conversations daily. I feel bad for my friends who have to hear about you all the time. Though I do enjoy a little “humble-bragging” - who doesn’t?

Sharing a Spotify account was probably a bad idea. Not only have I added several playlists to your profile, but I often take control of it so that I can play DJ for my friends… #sorrynotsorry

Speaking of music, every love song reminds me of you… even the ones that lyrically don’t apply. “Bleeding Love” by Leona Lewis has no application to our relationship, but every time I hear it I can’t help but think of you.

Communication is key and also 10 times harder in a long-distance relationship. If it weren’t for you, my phone would rarely be used for actual calls. I have learned that keeping someone else up to date on your life and openly sharing opinions and emotions requires extra effort.

I feel guilty that my education choices are the reason we have to go through all of this. Don’t get me wrong - I am glad I have the opportunity to go to a university and experience campus life. The classes I get to attend and the internship opportunities I have been given have taught me a lot. It is just that in the back of my mind I will always think of how much trouble this has caused you and wonder why you would even find it worth it.

The saying “absence makes the heart grow fonder” is true. I see couples walking around town, holding hands, talking with each other over coffee and all I can do is miss you. I miss being able to talk with you face to face, instead of screen to screen. I wonder if the couples I see realize how lucky they are to spend time together.

This long distance relationship has made me incredibly grateful. I am amazed that I am dating someone who thinks I am worth the pain and difficulty of long distance. I found a man who treats me well - even from far away!

If I had the chance to do it all again, I would. I would abstain from binge watching my favorite shows, put in the effort to communicate, and say painful goodbyes over and over. If it meant that I could be with you, I would not change a thing.