23 years ago my husband and I were stationed in Japan. We were so far away from friends and family! When we lived off base we couldn't even call back home. The internet would have been a lovely communication tool back then. I think it makes it easier to communicate now.

My daughter lives about 3 hours away, when I cannot get ahold of her on her cell, I know I can IM her or send her a message on facebook and get an immediate reply. In my opinion, it is what you make of it.