Technology in Long Distance Relationships

Developing emotional closeness with someone is hard work especially with a thousand of miles between you. For this reason many doubt that it is possible for couples to maintain long distance relationships for a lengthy period of time. This may have been so once upon a time when the only mode of communication was writing letters and waiting anxiously – sometimes for months for a reply. However, nowadays it seems as though technology has turned the tables around by making it easier and more interesting for couples living apart to nurture and build their relationship. Chantal Umutoni, 24, is a vibrant young lady working in community development in Kigali. She is currently in a long distance relationship and conveys that technology has definitely helped her. “If we hadn’t been able to keep in touch all these years we probably wouldn’t be together anymore,” Umutoni said. Communication is the backbone of a long distance relationship. Technology allows a couple to express their commitment to one another. Nonexistent communication or a breakdown of it can lead to issues with trust -and without trust it is very difficult for a couple to stand the test of distance and time. Umutoni uses several communication tools, such as MSN chat and phone calls. She also admits that Skype is great for communicating. “It’s free and gives us the opportunity to see each other as we talk- so it has made us feel a little closer and more connected,” she said adding that, “nothing is as fulfilling as the real thing but at least it’s nice to see the face of the person with whom you’re talking to, while hearing their voice.” Long distance relationships may come with frustrations of being apart, but thanks to today’s technology, ineffective communication is no longer a hindrance for many couples. Even though a couple is physically separated, technology provides many communication methods and can help boost their relationship by allowing them to feel included in each other’s lives. ms.efuahagan@gmail.com