I still remember the day when I got my first cell phone. I didn’t think I needed one. After all, life was fine and I was in contact with anyone I needed whenever I needed, or so I thought. I never dreamed how it would change my life. It started on those long commutes home from the office. My spouse and I would chat about everything that happened during the day. We would laugh, we would catch up, we would hear each other’s worries, and all of a sudden, we would soon be pulling into the driveway. In a way, it was a better life connection than waiting to get home where there was the pull to start dinner, connect with other family members and handle household tasks. We were already “connected” and our full attention could be on the other family members.

Fast-forward a decade and electronic communication has become commonplace. Everyone uses email, cell phones, chat, you name it to conduct business and keep in touch. And many times, people focus on how these forms of communication may be estranging relationships and substituting real conversation. But have you thought of ways that intimacy with your partner can be accomplished with these new tools?

In addition to text messaging with cell phones, what about taking advantage of video chatting during the day as a way to make visual contact? It's always a little strange to talk to the camera built into your laptop and wonder what others may be thinking as they walk by! But significant trust makes these issues melt away. Of course these electronic forms can be sterile and uninviting, but consider the possibilities. Is it better to go all day with anticipation of connecting over dinner or while finishing the day's chores? Or can you maintain a significant connection, even an intimate connection, using the myriad of electronic communications at your fingertips. It's certainly worth the try, and building a little intimacy, albeit through electronic means, can keep your relationship that much closer. The smile on your face when you get that text message that says, “thinking of you” or “can’t wait until tonight” could change the direction of your day. That chat in live time when something exciting just happens will enhance your day in ways least expected!