The words we so often hunger to hear from our life partners, husbands and wives are the words that warm our hearts and nourish our souls—simple words that we often have a difficult time speaking ourselves for fear of being hurt—again. There are only three of these simple words that can move mountains: “I love you.”

Research shows that there are several common threads that form the essence of a thriving relationship. These common threads act as a strong connection and grounding mechanism between partners in three very distinct areas: physical, emotional and spiritual. It is these three connections that create the strong foundation required to build a healthy and loving relationship.

The relationship must establish an important balance between these three areas; a balance that wonderfully adjusts itself over time as these connections continue to evolve and flow through the essence of each person. These represent the “bricks” needed to create and build a lasting relationship.

The mortar that holds theses bricks together comes from a commitment and devotion not only to each other, but more importantly, to grow and nurture an ever-expanding partnership along life’s journey as more than just two unique individuals—instead, as two together as one.

Devotion can be defined as deep love and commitment, great dedication and loyalty or strong enthusiasm and admiration for another person. But there are deeper feelings to be added to determine what causes two individuals to choose to be devoted partners in the first place.

True devotion is so much more than words could ever describe, but it begins with learning to never be afraid to say those three simple and powerful words we want to hear: “I love you.”

Ronnie Kaufman is a master life strategist and credentialed member of the International Coach Federation. He is currently offering complimentary life strategy sessions to new clients. For more information, call 520-829-0225, email [email protected] or visit MyStrategies.Life.