Joe and Mary are together. They see each other daily and kisses are shared between them. Lisa is in a long distance relationship with her boyfriend she found on the net. There is just so much stigma with internet relationships that she sometimes think she's really single. Actually, other people think she's alone because she is always by herself. What is Lisa to do? She can't gloat about her boyfriend and she is rather ashamed she couldn't find a boyfriend in real life instead of on the net.

Still, she knows that this love is real. Even though she can touch and feel her boyfriend, Jack, she knows they share something tangible, something wonderful. She often cries and wishes she could be with him more but there is just so much distance between them.

Does any of this sound familiar? Internet relationships are on the rise. Slowly, it may seem more like a joke at first, but almost everything will be done online. Have you noticed a decrease in phone calls for teens? Instant messaging is in and so convenient. Teens type at an insane level and that is impressive even when they type gibberish like lmao and bbl. Legal forms can be obtained online. And contrary to popular belief, people actually go online to buy stuff, not just to search for information.

The older generations are embracing the online life.

So why is there still so much taboo and stigma regarding internet relationships, especially of the long distance kind?

For one, these relationships can be more stressful than all others. For one, physical intimacy is nonexistent when the couple is separated. It is not for everyone.

Also, it requires a lot of trust and time. You will have to trust your judgment about this person you are falling in love with. Is he or she really who he or she clames to be? Without a phone, words are the only thing that keeps you two together. (Of course, by now, everyone should have learned about the wonderful program Skype.)

Still, there are so many beautiful aspects about this type of relationship. The feelings can be so genuine and your partner will understand you like no other, if he/she reads and commit your words to heart. There is so much communication between you and your partner will be your best friend as well as your significant other, as long as the relationship lasts.

And when you are finally together, there will be a lot of spark. Granted that you know how this person looks like, know his/her voice, and know him/her from your conversations, you will not be intimidated when you meet him/her.

Soulmates... Can you really find your soulmate online?

Some have succeeded, some haven't.

All in all, use your own discretion and remember the wise words of someone whose name I can not remember.

"A stranger is only a friend you've yet to make..."

I do not encourage however for the younger generation to fall in love and meet every other person they've met online.

Love is so powerful, wonderful, and beautiful. Please do not take it for granted, treat it as something superficial or abuse it.

In summary, I do believe long distance internet relationships can work. Make sure that your partner knows everyday that you love him/her. With every relationships, please don't play with hearts.

Good luck.