For our seventh wedding anniversary, my husband planned a lovely evening for us to celebrate our special day. We went to dinner and then he surprised me with tickets to see Patti LaBelle in concert. We were probably the youngest people there, but who doesn’t love them some Patti?!
The show was excellent. Patti belted through the plethora of hits that have marked her stellar career with vibrancy and ease. Mid-way through her set, she sang her classic slow jam, “Love, Need and Want You.” As she sang and I stood there in my husband’s arms, I couldn’t help but think about how powerful the statements “I love you,” “I need you,” and “I want you” are in a marriage.
Here are 3 statements every spouse needs to hear:
Honey, I love you.
Far too often, as we get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, “I love you” becomes a quick salutation at the end of phone conversations and text messages between spouses. How much more would it mean if you stopped your spouse from whatever they were doing, stared into their eyes and said, “I love you.” It’s easy to take your husband or wife’s love for granted. Make the extra effort to express your feelings for them and let them know they are loved and appreciated by you.
Baby, I need you.
Merriam-Webster defines the word need as “a situation in which someone or something must do or have something.” Think about that for a second. When you say to your spouse that you need them, you are declaring that you must have them! Tell your partner today that you need and must have him or her…just like you need air to breathe.
Sugar, I want you.
Never let your spouse wonder if you still desire them. Make it known that you want every part of who they are – don’t expect them to guess. Looks can change over the years, but what’s most important is that your spouse knows that, no matter what, you want them in every way; mentally, emotionally, and physically.
And there you have it. Whether you’ve been together two years or twenty, there’s nothing more powerful than telling your husband or wife how much you love, need and want them. Add those words to the lexicon of your marriage without delay. Be sure to back them up with actions, too!
If all else fails, call on Patti LaBelle to help you along and simply repeat this lyric of her song:
“I love and need and want you, baby.”
BMWK family: Who will commit to telling their spouse in a thoughtful and purposeful manner that they love, need and want them – TODAY? Comment below and let us know!