Our third step in staying strong through the holidays.

Step #3: Prayer.

Some of you are very comfortable with prayer in your lives others are not. Saying grace at the dinner table can be as easy as taking one moment before you all start eating and saying thanks for this food and for those who prepared it and for those who are hear to eat it. We have a tradition of saying prayers with our kids at night as I tuck them in to bed.

For the holidays find a prayer you can say in the morning that inspires you to be the parent and spouse that you want to be. Take time for yourself everyday (even if it is only one minute) to say a prayer - a gratitude - a mantra - whatever you want to call it.

Here is a prayer that my husband and I read out loud together about once every other week and that I read to myself frequently:

A Prayer of Spouses For Each Other

Lord Jesus, Grant that I and my spouse may have a true and understanding love for each other. Grant that we may both be filled with faith and trust. Give us the grace to live with each other in peace and harmony. May we always bear with each other’s weaknesses and grow from each other’s strengths. Help us to forgive one another’s failings and grant us the patience, kindness, and cheerfulness and the spirit of placing the well-being of one another ahead of self.

May the love that brought us together grow and mature with each passing year. Bring us both ever closer to you through our love for each other. Let our love grow to perfection. Amen.