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An intimate relationship is one in which neither party silences, sacrifices, or betrays the self and each party expresses strength and vulnerability, weakness and competence in a balanced way.

Harriet Lerner (2009). “The Dance of Intimacy: A Woman's Guide to Courageous Acts of Change in Key Relationships”, p.3, Harper Collins
An intimate relationship is one in which neither party silences, sacrifices, or betrays the self and each party expresses strength and vulnerability, weakness and competence in a balanced way.