Since the pandemic, there has been an increase in marital woes and discontent. I believe wholeheartedly in acknowledging, processing, and identifying triggers and being honest with our mates about what "our new normal," looks like and how external stressors add to marriage conflict. For those who are contemplating marriage, please consider having those difficult conversations in an effort to be proactive versus reactive. Finally, for families in conflict, consider making today the first day of changes, though small, that are needed to navigate into a better future. Admittedly, I sometimes have an unorthodox approach to therapy. I believe we cannot continue speaking and thinking the same way and expect a different result. I meet clients at the pain, hurt, grief, and sadness by vacillating between using humor and/or directness, to challenge a client to fulfill true self-reflection. To the couple or family struggling to survive conflict, trauma, and grief, let's build upon the strengths within the family to overcome the shortcomings. It's a new day!