In the movie Sliding Doors, Helen Quilley runs down the stairs of a London Underground station. She arrives on the platform just in time to catch the train. A second scene shows a slight variation from the first. Helen is again running down the stairs but this time a young girl with a doll delays Helen’s progress by ten seconds. The train doors close just before Helen can step in. The movie continues alternating on two different tracts: one follows Helen’s life after she catches the first train; the other follows her very different life after she misses the first train and boards the second train.

Remember how you and your partner met? What slight variation in your life might have occurred to prevent you from meeting? The action you took after you met really determined the many events in your life. Somehow you followed through and decided to continue the relationship. Now, with your partner, you are often presented with your own version of sliding doors. Whether or not you select a particular opening to foster the relationship can play a major role in the emotional and physical health of both of you. Think of the doors that would open wider if you choose to say something or do something that will bring you closer to that romantic beginning. (For those who aren’t currently in a relationship, you have the power to enter that door as it slides open and take positive action, resulting in a closer friendship, a better business arrangement, or a new hobby.)

The Road to Power Snuggling
Power Snuggling requires taking specific action regardless of whether you decide to take the first or second train. The beauty of living with new chances is that you can always make decisions that will improve your relationship. And if one door doesn’t lead where you want to go, choose another door.

Your Weekly Homework Think of three specific actions you can take this week that might help you and your spouse recapture the joy you both felt when you first met. Try them out!