What does losing weight, exercising, and "praying more" have in common? They are common New Year's resolutions, and as far as resolutions go, without a bit of discipline, most of us abandon these well-meaning promises by April. It’s sad but true… according to results of a multi-year study conducted by the University of Scranton, only 19% of study participants stuck with and reached their goals. On a more positive note, the study also found that people who made resolutions were 10 times more likely to make some positive change after six months, than those who did not make any resolutions. [1] Having goals and working towards them, even in small ways, makes a difference. So what about your relationships? Have you made some relationship goals involving your husband, wife or children? Why not devote some time and effort to the health and fitness of your marriage? Here are 10 Relationship Goals to consider for 2022: 1. Write a love letter to your spouse which focuses on what you appreciate about them. Stick to positive things, no complaints or gripes! 2. Make your child(ren) their lunch as frequently as possible and include notes about the gifts you see in them. (Ex. “You are a great boy, your friends are lucky to have you and so am I”) 3. Go out with your spouse without your children at least once a month. Date nights may sound corny, but face to face time with your beloved is crucial to avoid marital “drift” 4. Spend time with each child doing something they enjoy. This gets harder as they get older, but do it anyway. 5. Pray for and with your spouse. Small resentments and problems melt away when a couple prays together. There is no problem God can’t handle if you ask. 6. Teach your children to pray and pray with them. Our faith offers a plethora of options as far as prayers and devotions, as well as Scripture, which is beautiful for prayer too. 7. Make an annual couple’s retreat a part of your married life. Going away for a weekend, or just a day is the nourishment your relationship needs for the struggles ahead. 8. Have a “gadget fast” and play non-electronic games with your children instead. Choose board games, or their favorite outdoor activity or sport. 9. If you are struggling in your marriage seek good Catholic or Christian counseling. Doing nothing solves nothing. Unresolved problems and conflicts are a cancer to your marriage. Every couple needs help every now and then. 10. “Love one another as I have loved you,” says Jesus in Sacred Scripture (John 13:34-35). What does this look like in our marriage and family life? Jesus’ love is generous, it is faithful, full of life, and forever. Sounds like marriage vows doesn’t it? Stella Maris Center will be offering several events in 2022 to help you reach your relationship goals and strengthen your marriage and family life! We will also offer trainings and consultations for church leaders who wish to grow their outreach to marriage and family.