The dreaded 'LDR'

Dear Ms. Meniscus,

School just ended and quite a few of my friends are switching schools. One of my best friends and the guy I've liked on and off since 4th grade is moving away to a boarding school quite a few states away.

What should I do?

- Soccer Chick

Dear Soccer Chick,

Long-distance relationships of the romantic variety are never easy -- particularly for the young.

However, as much as it pains me to tell a young, romantic poppet like yourself, what you and your friend have is not a coupled relationship. He hasn't ever actually asked you out on a date, nor have you asked him.

If he comes back to town on a regular basis, you can work up the courage to pursue dating. If not, I'm afraid it's time to move on.

You can always dust off that summer reading list.

Dear Ms. Meniscus,

I recently took a job which forces me to be away from my boyfriend for several months. I work a TON, but when I'm not working, all I want to do is talk to him -- like we do when we're together.

I call a lot.

How do I keep from bugging him?

- Blue in Buffalo Grove

Dear Blue,

Unlike with poor Ms. Soccer Chick above, it seems the long-distance now exists between a functioning couple. The same is always true -- if you love each other, trust each other, and protect the best interests and feelings of each other, you can make anything work.

Why, just the other week I had a lady friend of mine -- who's husband is working overseas -- show me how she talks to him for free over the internet using "video chat." Bless me, I thought that was something only possible at Disneyland in the 1960s.

Just relax. Keep open lines of communication with your boyfriend -- checking in once a day is good. Be patient with each other.

And exercise. The increased endorphins will alleviate any sadness.

Dear Ms. Meniscus,

My son is currently serving in Iraq. I miss him terribly. He's been gone now for the better part of four years.

Though I'm incredibly proud of him, is it selfish of me to want him home?

- Virginia Soldier's Momma

Dear Momma,

Of course it's not selfish -- we all miss our brave men and women who are putting their lives on the line halfway around the world. And many of us want them home as soon as possible, just as you do.

You have to trust that the decision to enter the Armed Forces has made your son happy. And remember that he loves his family and country so much that he's willing to put himself in such dangerous environs.

The only solace any of us can have is to pray or have faith that he will make it through this terrible ordeal safely. We're thinking of you.

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