Happy Marriage Quote – Close, But Not Too Close

“To keep the fire burning brightly there’s one easy rule: Keep the two logs together, near enough to keep each other warm and far enough apart – about a finger’s breadth – for breathing room. Good fire, good marriage, same rule.”

This quote by Marnie Reed Crowell hits the nail on the head when it comes to keeping the spark going in your relationship.

RULE ONE PART A: STAY CLOSE

Stay close to your guy, not just physically close, but also emotionally close. If you withdraw and become cold for whatever reason, then the fire can be extinguished before you have a chance to put things right.

Remember to communicate what you are feeling even if you are hurt or angry with him. Nothing can be fixed, if you don’t speak out. Above all, don’t sulk. You’re not two years old. (Though, I have to admit I sulk now and again when I’m too annoyed to have a sensible discussion…oops)

RULE ONE PART B: NOT TOO CLOSE

Give yourself and your guy room to breathe. Don’t smother him with love.

Wanting to be close is one thing. Wanting him to give up spending time with friends and on the hobbies and interests you don’t have in common, quite another.

A life of your own keeps things more exciting for both of you, and it makes you seem less dependent and needy and, therefore, so much more attractive. Never give up your interests or friends just because you are in love and don’t expect him to do that either.

WHAT IS YOUR EXPERIENCE? Does this view of a good marriage (or relationship) match up with yours? Have you ever been too close to a guy or has a guy tried to smother you with affection? PLEASE SHARE IN THE COMMENTS BELOW