These words are a great opening to important topics that may be somewhat uncomfortable to talk about. By starting the discussion this way, you are stating your intention that you are sharing this possibly difficult information for the sake of the relationship. That you want to stay close and even deepen the relationship and therefore you feel the need to have the conversation.

“Because our relationship is so important to me, I want to share how I feel when you do [whatever].”

When your spouse starts a conversation this way, it is important to be open, even if you are feeling hurt or defensive.