Saflowers (16)

Three profound dimensions of intimacy

There are three profound dimensions of intimacy that human beings can experience. Each one takes us deeper into relationship. While they are connected, they are not the same. They build on one another, moving from understanding, to embodied connection, to communion with God. 1. Intimacy of the Mind – “I know you.” Every meaningful relationship …

Nights sky and stars (13)

When that emotional reserve is exhausted, the relationship often changes dramatically.

Every healthy relationship is sustained by an emotional reserve—a store of love, trust, respect, kindness, compassion, patience, and goodwill. You can think of it as an emotional bank account. Every act of honesty, appreciation, forgiveness, and support makes a deposit. Every insult, betrayal, manipulation, criticism, contempt, or act of disrespect makes a withdrawal. When the …