I'm really glad that you wrote the "PS" to your post, because, if you want for her to change, it's gotta be a 2 way street. She probably has issues with you as well, but won't say anything. This sort of non-communication has to start to change somewhere, and people like to see others trying too, especially when they're being expected to change. Not talking about anything in your relationship (sexual, emotional, financial, whatever) can't expected to get better if you don't address the issue. Saying "I love you" to her and your kids is a GREAT way to start changing, especially if she knows how you grew up, but, what else is there? You're wanting her to change her whole thought process, which can be a lot deeper for some people. Showing her that you are willing to do some heavy changing yourself, will help her feel that she won't be the only one making an effort, and feeling bad about herself, and possible getting a grudge against you too. Telling your wife that she doesn't do it for you, no matter how you word it, it's going to make her feel bad. What's going to be tricky, is letting her know that it's not HER your disappointed with, but the lack of passion in the bedroom. A woman is wired to want to please people in her life. However, if she was instilled with deep-seeded values about sex, then this will be extremely harder for her to try and overcome. Some people have it so ingrained into them that they can't get over it, or never learn HOW to overcome these beliefs. People need to WANT to change as well. If she's happy with how she thinks, feels, and acts, she won't want to change. After all these years, it's worked for her, and it may seem, to her, that you want her to do some uber changing all of a sudden. If she doesn't like your personality, well, that's a bit harder to address, since, your personality is what makes you YOU. Now, if she just has a problem with your sincerity, that can be worked on. Too much complimenting can sound insincere. So can the tone of the voice. If she has a low self-esteem, then, no matter how sincere you are, she won't believe you, and you can't help that. There are a lot of issues here that sound like they will need some heavy duty work, and possible some marriage counselling, so you both can learn the TOOLS & SKILLS to make geniune changes that will stick. Best wishes to you both!