Those of you who routinely follow my blog know that I typically write about business topics: leadership communication, executive presence, sales presentations, business writing, and book writing and publishing. But since we’re celebrating love this week with Valentine’s Day, I’m turning to personal relationships at home.
Maintaining rewarding love relationships is both difficult and important. I’d argue that it’s the secret to deep satisfaction. After all, what good is being at the top of your game in business and having all the money in the world if you have no one to enjoy it with?
You don’t develop courage by being happy in your relationships every day. You develop it by surviving difficult times and challenging adversity, according to Epicurus. My experience confirms the truth of his observation. Pat yourself on the back if you, too, are building courage by strengthening your personal relationships every year. Sometimes, crisis by crisis.
So this week, I’ve decided to share some excerpts from my book, Love Notes: From My Heart to Yours (Thomas Nelson/JCountryman) in the hopes that these thoughts might inspire you to write your own note to that special someone in your life. Some silly, some sincere—but all meant to make someone’s day (or their year) brighter!
Go ahead; write that note to your special love!
“I love you because you always tell me
to drive carefully,
wear a coat,
get some rest, and
stop worrying. Why should I worry?
I have you.”
“ You always find a way—not an excuse. Whatever the predicament we find ourselves in, you always find a way to resolve it, remake it, or move us through it. Thank you for not giving up. Thank you for being so persistent and consistent.”
“You sometimes let me have the last word—even when it’s wrong.
And when you could, you don’t take the parting shot,
one that could cut me to the quick.
When you lose an opportunity like that, we both win.”
“Living with you is like having
caviar for an appetizer,
sirloin for an entrée,
and crème bruleé for dessert.
You’re a feast that satisfies!”
[Tweet ““Living with you is like having caviar for an appetizer, sirloin for an entrée & crème bruleé for dessert…””]
“Talk takes time but opens my heart to your love.
Our conversations relieve me from the stress of everyday life—decisions, hustle and
bustle, even accomplishments.
Our talk releases my heart into the hands of one who cares.”
“ Listening is the best ‘line’ you ever tried with me. You listen to me—with your heart,
your mind, and your soul. You read between the lines and ask questions to understand
exactly what I’m trying to express.”
“ When I deserve your love the least, that’ s when you give it the most. When I’m irritable,
exhausted, discouraged, or distant, you understand.”
“Your childhood often shapes the love you give. You’ve looked into your past for habits
and attitudes that are worth keeping—and discarded those that are tattered and torn.
Thank you for making our love the best of the past and the brightest of the new.”