Can Long Distance Relationships Work?

This is an age old question, and yet I still don't think there's a sure fire, quick fix answer to it nor do I believe there ever will be. Every situation is different so in some cases I believe it could work while in other cases... Not so much. Now, I believe also that those that work will only work at a distance for so long because we as human beings need love and affection and we also crave attention, that being said if you can't get all that you need and deserve from the one you're committed to you may rebel and start looking for those things else where. I think if your distance is only a temporary thing and you know when the distance will no longer be an issue, it's easier to handle. For instance, if one of you is in school in a particular area and have a year or two left to finish before you're able to move closer to your mate, it's easier for you to deal with the distance versus you not knowing how long you'll be so far apart because of other issues like being away for war. However, I know of two contradicting sayngs that also make this a hard question to answer clearly; absence makes the heart grow fonder and out of sight, out of mind. What do you think? Can a long distance relationship ever work? Or do you think you should just remain single if the person you want to be with is a long distance from you?