Friends John, Bruce, Kent, Drew, Gregor, Linda, Llama-Dave, Rob, Mel and many others all stay in regular (or at least semi-regular) touch with me via IM and email. The phone still works, but these Internet tools generally make contact more convenient and/or immediate. I miss all these people, but everyday proves the shortest distance between 2 friends is the Internet, at least those who are geographically separated.
i can attest to doug’s testimonial. i would be very sad right now if i could not maintain contact with people dear to me over the internet.