Hi, Doc. Given your post title, if I may...I think you might like this:
Your post is spot on and goes seamlessly with one of the short relationship 'pearls' in my latest E-book. An edited version of the entry "Assure Adequate Nutrition" is below; in it, I encourage people to nurture--nourish--their relationships to keep the relationship alive (just as we M.D.'s have to assure adequate nutrition to keep a patient's physical health in good shape).
A little E-book of 'heart' advice, First Do No Harm: How to Heal Your Relationships Using the Wisdom of Professional Caregivers: http://amzn.to/YWSXqa
"Assure Adequate Nutrition"
One of the most important duties of a doctor is the assessment, correction and upkeep of adequate nutrition for patients... Without these building blocks, cells suffer, strength is reduced, wounds don't heal, and organs wither and die. In short, without ongoing and proper nutrition, life dissipates.
Adequate “nutrition” is also vital to sustain and promote the life of your relationship.
Too often people stop feeding their relationship and loved ones with the building blocks they used to first bring life to that relationship—love, laughter, fun, prayer, understanding, time together, communication. These are just some of the necessary nutrients you must give your relationship on a regular basis.
When you withdraw these, for whatever reason—too busy with the kids, work, or other responsibilities pulling on your time—your relationship will suffer. The frequency of joyful moments is reduced, communication falters, any painful situations won't heal and the relationships themselves may wither and perhaps even die.
Don't make your loving relationship a victim of “failure to thrive.” Feed it with the emotional, supportive and vital nutrients it needs to be healthy, viable and vibrant for years to come.
Just sharing. Keep up the good work.