“Long distance relationships never work.” (insert rolling eyes emoji)

This is another lie you tell yourself and unfortunately, others. If you believe in yourself, you can make anything work - especially if there are two of you putting in the same effort and energy into your supposed future together. Your future depends on the way you handle this moment, the way you handle this day, and the way you handle this long distance relationship.

I acknowledge the fact that at times, long-distance relationships do NOT work. However, I will share with you how we made it work, and a sure-fire recipe on how you can now make it work, AS WELL.

Chasing after a better job offer, my family moved away to Pittsburgh. We had to leave behind our neighbors, friends and relatives. I remember people were judging my dad by saying, “What do you think you’re doing taking your family far away from everybody? Your kids will never get married like this!”

People like to assume..and people like to think they’re always right. Sadly, sometimes humans like to assume the worst, and consider everyone else in the room clueless. But not us, young adults! We don’t think we are right..we KNOW we are correct! (I’m speaking for all yinz out there, so don’t let me down). Let’s prove them wrong because God is with us.

My people, you will never have the “ultimate relationship” unless God is involved. You will never be able to have healthy relationships with people until you have a strong bond with God.

We will conquer the devil the minute we hear him wanting to battle. Why? Because 1 John 2:13! “...I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one.” So let us go beyond the cross. Do more for the family, do more for the people around you, and do more for Jesus, who is your Personal Savior! As soon as you get God’s “ok” from Him, ask that significant other to pray with you about your intentions. Another verse that comes to mind is Matthew 18:19-20,  “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” There is power in couples praying together. Prayer will lead to long-term commitment and blessing.

Here are some moves you need to perform in order to get that endless flame:

1. Guys, you need to make the first move. Be confident in your decisions and believe in yourself.

2. Phone calls, Facetime, and texts is much needed to communicate.  

3. Agree to pray about your future together.

4. Travel as often as possible to see each other.

5. If you feel God’s favor on this relationship, then get married already! Why wait any longer when you finally found everything you’ve been looking for in that person?!

This last number 5 is for guys because your girl will never propose to you..she wants to be a wife already, for heaven's sake!

When communicating, always ask how your person is TRULY doing. Ask them how you can be there for them when you’re physically not. Ask your person how you can turn their bad day around. Also, don’t forget to write handwritten love letters, and don’t forget to send each other selfies. At the end of the day, make sure you make your person smile on daily basis as  you make them patiently wait for the next step in life. But don’t make them wait for too long..

You are at peace with God, your family, and yourself. You are now ready to go the extra mile!  Can you imagine how easy it will be to make a long-distance relationship work?! You might even have a crush. Or you might already love your person.  Don’t let that person get away. Chin-up buttercup because your time will come:) Now that you have a game plan, things should go smoothly.

No, it’s not weird if you go and create a wedding board on Pinterest. But if you already did, then give yourself a high five. It’s good to be prepared.