Distance is a very real hindrance or a lot of relationships.
I wrote a thread once asking how many people thought they'd be married right now if it wasn't for distance.
I often wonder if the internet gives us false hope -- like, we meet this amazing person online whom we think is just the right match...
But it never actually works out because of distance.
I've been in that situation myself (not finding what I thought was the right person, but have met some I would have dated to see if it could turn into anything if not for the distance.)
I have to admit though, I think in every incidence, the distance was saving me -- and the other person -- from a huge mistake. But that's just because I'm so darn ornery!!
I'm sure in some cases, it could work out for some fine people, and I always feel sad when I hear of couples who seem to get along very well, but can't explore a real possibility because of distance.
Yes, I know, in some cases God will provide, but I've known many other cases in which it didn't happen (which again, could be from God, but part of the frustration is not really knowing.)