“If conversation was the lyrics, laughter was the music, making time spent together a melody, that could be replayed over and over without getting stale.” – Nicholas Sparks
If we want to build strong foundation for relationships, we need to set an exclusive time for bonding, and be tenacious in doing it. It has to be constantly and persistently and it could be any activity that you do daily, weekly, or monthly. The key here is to spend time together on a set schedule repeatedly.
I have a graveyard work schedule, and so I sleep during the afternoon. I deliberately choose to sleep in the afternoon because I want to see and welcome my 5-year old daughter back from school. When she takes her nap, I sleep with her but we have this everyday ritual that we call “Cuddle Time”. 🙂
When we’re in bed, we talk, sometimes we sing together or read a book, then we tickle each other, we exchange kisses on the face, and hug-hug-hug a lot! And then we pray and go to sleep.
We do this every single day. WHY? Because this is how we could strengthen our bond as mother & daughter. This is our “WE” time. And this is what I want her to remember when she grows up- the fun & happy times, not those times when I get frustrated at her.
Now it is not enough to just set a time. It is important to be “present” in that exact moment. Don’t do it with your mind elsewhere, otherwise you are not going to enjoy and it loses its significance for you. It will be just like any other routine.
If you want to strengthen your relationship with your spouse, siblings, parents or friends, be intentional in spending “WE” time with them. Do not put other things before your scheduled time of “togetherness” and ALWAYS be mindful of the moment. Be there and be present physically & emotionally!