Word to the Wives Wednesday

It has been an interesting couple of weeks in my home.  I was released from jury duty after a couple of days at the courthouse.  It would have been an interesting trial and I knew a few of the folks who were in the jury selection pool.  It was an amusing way to spend a couple of days.  But, I also wanted to be at home.

As I wrote last Sunday, my husband had the accident at work but recovered quickly and was back on the job before the week was up.  He was scheduled to work for two days, three hours each day.  This week he was scheduled on Monday for three hours beginning at the crack of dawn.  He is also working Friday for three more hours.

And then they cut his hours to three per week beginning next week.

Retail business can be a roller coaster ride for everyone involved.    But there are many businesses suffering this type of decline and many employees are affected as we are.  More and more couples are facing under-employment, unemployment or both (like us).

There is an up side to all of this.  As an unemployed wife I am able to focus a lot of attention on what is needed to support him.  I am also at home to receive and to recognize his efforts on my behalf. I am learning a lot about encouraging a husband through the ups and downs of employment success and crisis.  My husband truly expects to support and provide for our household.  It makes no difference - his ability or disability - he seems to hold himself to the same standard as able bodied men.  It is best if I treat him equal to his peers.

When life events derail his expectations, his sense of self worth is affected.  I have to be careful how I respond.  I cannot suggest that he not worry -  using silly, unfounded statements like, "Don't worry.  Everything will be okay."  "Business will pick up soon."  "Give it time, honey.  I'm sure they'll give you more hours during the holidays."

I tried just one of those phrases and he gave me 'that look' before he responded, "But what if it doesn't get any better.  What if I don't get anymore hours?"

My words were about as empty as his hope.

I had created today's feature card with this type of life event in mind - for others.  It did not occur to me that I would soon be needing to present it to my own husband.  And now, after preparing this post and reviewing the card, I realize that it would also make a wonderful "Get Well" card.  Not mushy or gushy or sentimental.

It speaks a fact that men like to hear.   I am told that they derive strength from the prayers of their wives.  Consider this the next time your husband is disheartened by health or trial of faith.

Peace and Joy

Word to the Wives ~ ~ The power of a praying wife cannot be measured but it can be shared. Your husband will draw strength from the knowledge that you pray for him.

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