When life gets busy, this is what keeps a marriage alive

It’s been 13 years since we had kids.

And somewhere along the way, the long, meandering conversations that used to fill our evenings … slowed down.

You probably know this rhythm, too.

Most couples today are negotiating connection inside a life that never stops moving.

And I get it. All too well. I’m in that exact season, and it doesn’t leave much room for deep conversation.

For a long time, I used to feel a little neglected living in that reality.

Now? I’m like China: I play the long game.

I’m thinking in decades, not months.

Instead of panicking about a temporary dry spell, I’ve learned how to sit in the background, stay connected, and wait patiently for my turn …

… because the long-term love story is still unfolding. And the conversations I am saving up … matter.

Here are the ones I can’t wait to have with Meredith (and the ones I hope spark something for you too):

1. - Talking about faith, in God, in each other, and in our future.

2. - Hearing how life is really affecting her, not just the surface-level updates.

3. - Asking her, “What has to happen so you know you’re loved by me?”

4. - The end-of-life stuff nobody wants to talk about … but every couple needs to.

5. - What our second act looks like once the kids launch.

6. - And someday, replaying the tape with her. Telling her how beautiful our life has been, and how lucky I’ve been to love her.

Because the truth is, there’s one voice I never get tired of hearing: hers.

Over the years, we’ve disagreed. Fought hard. And cried harder.

But we’ve laughed even more.

And despite full days, demanding kids, and careers that never stop, our souls remain tethered.

She doesn’t even have to say a word most days. 

I still spend every free second I have, loving her from whatever distance.

And maybe you needed this reminder today too:

Don’t worry if life has stolen some of your long conversations. 

They come back. They always do … IF the connection is cared for.

Take one small moment this week to ask a question you’ve been saving. 

Open a door you’ve been quietly waiting to walk through together.

Those little reconnections are what hold a marriage together in the busiest seasons of life.