Little did I know that a "For Sale" sign would test my strength and perseverance.
Fettered by youth, doubt, and distance it came time to face the separation that comes with any long distance relationship.
The news stung me like a fire ant, unanticipated and painful. My boyfriend was moving. Immediately comments like "You are too young to take on this responsibility" and "Long distance relationships never work" consumed my thoughts. However, I knew this was my time to prove to myself and everyone else that I could indeed overcome this obstacle. I gathered the necessary ingredients to maintain a functional loving relationship. I fought this struggle with the glowing beams of optimism while telling myself that things would only get easier. Fortunately, they did. My organizational skills peaked when I arranged monthly visits, and I creatively found time to see him every night with the assistance of a webcam. Despite the four hundred miles separating us, I made time for him every day. Additionally, my parents' support brought out my inner strength and encouraged me to persevere. The anxiety of betrayal or falling out of love never fazed me. I have never once doubted my ability of upholding my responsibility and my commitment to the relationship. Since the day my boyfriend moved away, we have been strong and stayed together despite the distance. Every day I am proud to say that I, a teenager, can maintain a long distance relationship.
When dreaming about the college lifestyle one must also consider leaving their loved ones and living in a new fresh environment. Most college freshmen have never been fully dependent and have no experience dealing with separation; I however have mastered this obstacle. After having to be strong through the distance separating my boyfriend and me, I have learned a sense of independence and inner strength. My newly found characteristics will allow me to be focused on my academics and my involvement in the University of Florida community, not how homesick I would feel. Additionally, my optimism and high spirits regarding leaving home will aid students in finding their independence as well. Being away from the security blanket that is our home frightens most incoming college applicants, but because of my long distance relationship I am confident that despite the distance I am enthralled to commence my college experience.
I have learned through my long distance relationship that disconnection makes you stronger. Many college freshmen fear the distance and separation from their loved ones. I however accept the challenge.
