Reflection

Every new year brings a hope, an expectation of something new and wonderful. Families everywhere make resolutions and plans that will hopefully produce a better upcoming year.

Before you start making those plans for the new year, take some time to reflect on 2006 with your family. Try these tips for your reflection:

Ask questions Get input from your family. Find out what things they think are nice about your family. What activities do you enjoy doing together as a family? What areas does your family think need improving? Keep the lines of communication open and get lots of feedback from every family member.

Preserve memories As your family reflects on 2006, have each member write down their favorite, special memory from this year. Start a Family Book, a book that will preserve these special memories year after year.

Recognize growth How has each family member grown in 2006? Talk about how you’ve grown individually and as a family. Point out the ways that you’ve recognized growth in your spouse and children. Then, ask each family member in what ways they would like to experience personal growth in 2007.

Create a plan There is no better way to end one year than to create a plan for your family in the next year. What would your family like to accomplish in the next year? How can you grow as a family? What did you do this year that you’d like to continue doing together as a family next year? Make a plan that your family can set into action together.

To be To Do today

1) Write a letter to each family member to express your pride in them

2) Think about how your family has grown in 2006

3) Pray for God’s guidance for each member in your family