Marriage is a wonderful journey, but like any journey, it has its ups and downs. One of the critical factors in a long-lasting and fulfilling marriage is intimacy. Intimacy isn't just about physical closeness – it's about the emotional, intellectual, and spiritual connection that couples create and nurture over time.

If you and your spouse are feeling like you're drifting apart, don't despair. Here are some ways to rediscover and strengthen the bond of intimacy:

1. Communication is King (or Queen)

Open, honest, and compassionate communication is the foundation of intimacy. Too often, couples get stuck in the routines of daily life and forget to truly communicate. Make time for meaningful conversations – not just about the kids or household chores, but also about your hopes, dreams, fears, and feelings.

Find times when you can give each other undivided attention. Turn off the TV, put away the phones, and focus on each other. Practice active listening – really hear what your partner ...

In the city that I live a very popular chain restaurant just closed. Apparently, it was the lowest performing restaurant in the state and so they decided to shut it down. When I first heard about this I was really shocked. Five years ago if anyone would have told me that this chain would be closing stores, rather than expanding in 2018 I would have bet against you. But the fact remains that times change, tastes change and that nothing is guaranteed. Like the beginning of so many things, opening a new store, starting a new job, and entering into a new relationship the beginning is often filled with excitement, joy, and hope towards a bright future. But, all too often I think we all experience seeing things fail, diminish and not meet the future expectations that we had set in the beginning.

Today, I wanted to get you thinking about the relationships that you currently hold near-and-dear to your heart. Most likely, these relationships that you’re thinking about are family members, a spo...