Relationships are Hard

I've discovered quite recently (obviously) that being in a relationship is difficult.

No, scratch that. . . Being in an intercontinental, bilingual, entire-ocean-in-between-us, uber long distance relationship is difficult!

Even though this thing is hard, I'm having a great time getting to know someone for who they are, without the distraction of physical intimacy in the way. Don't get me wrong, I like being intimate. However, intimacy doesn't always have to be physical. You can feel close to someone through emotional and spiritual intimacy as well. Sometimes this might be even more meaningful.

I've been able to discover this recently and it's been amazing! I like being able to have the opportunity to work on communication, to get to know someone for who they are and not how you feel when you're around them. I admit, I get butterflies and chills when I'm talking on the phone with Barna. It feels great to see an e-mail from him in my Inbox. However, knowing that I'm building a solid relationship with him that is founded on trust and Christ makes the distance not seem so bad.

Yes, this is difficult. Probably one of the hardest things God has put in my life thus far. But, all the more to prepare me for whatever crazy and creative plans he has for me (or us) in the future! I know that God is molding Barna and I to do incredible things for the glory of the Kingdom. Whether this is together or apart, only God knows. I keep asking, by the way, and He's not budging on the whole "be still and know that I am God" thing. . .

This relationship thing is new for me. And, I definitely do NOT know all of the answers. However, God is showing me so many new things about my faith through Barna. It amazes me how his faith encourages mine and often he has no idea. (Note to self: tell him!) I find a soft stirring to dig deeper and find answers in my Bible, even though I've read the story a million times. Barna helps me see where passion lies. Even if faith is only mustard seed sized, it can still move Everest.

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