Tuesday, October 7, 2008

It's been 5 weeks...

I sit here and stare at the screen while thinking of how long this time has seemed, but also at the same time how short it has seemed. We are doing okay. I think that both Dan and I are ready to assume our usual roles...mine as a stay at home mom and his as a working Dad. This role reversal thing has been tough and we are still working out kinks.

What I wish people knew...

...not to compare themselves to us if your husband is working. If your husband has a job, good for you. Right now, mine does not. Please don't talk about how similar your situation is to ours unless your husband is unemployed also...there's really no comparison.

...I am working because I have to. I don't enjoy leaving my family every afternoon. I don't enjoy working 32 hours a week. I am exhausted from trying to juggle all my normal duties around the house and also being at work.

...this is stressful on a marriage. Everyone has problems but ours seems to be escalated by our situation and added stress.

...I want this to be over. Yes, there is learning to be done in every situation, wisdom to be gained. But, is it so wrong of me to ask that this would not last more than a week more? I don't want a job that pays as well as Dan's old job...just something that covers our needs.

...most importantly, God has been more than faithful. When people seem to disappear, when this road seems lonely, when the people we thought we could look to for support give none, My God has shown that our hope should not be in people. Even though it hurts deeply to feel like people have turned their backs on us, our provision is from God. When food stops coming, our supply comes from God. I am trying to cling to these:

So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. ~Matthew 6:31-34

6 things to add:

Peaceful Chaoz said...

Wish we could do more, but know we are still praying for you guys.

Rebecca said...

Oh, my. It sounds like you are.....broken? Is that the right word? My heart aches for you & for the place that you are in right now. I was praying for Dan on Saturday, as I believe he had some testing on that day. No, it is not wrong of you to want this to be over ASAP!! I can relate to you about having hope in people, instead of in Jesus.

I tried calling you so I could encourage you, but maybe you were busy. Hope we can catch up soon :>)

Andrea said...

I'm feeling kind of embarassed now, like maybe I offended you by the comment I wrote when you first wrote that Dan is unemployed. If so, I'm really sorry. I was only trying to let you know you're not alone. For me, that is a comforting thought even though I wouldn't wish anyone else to go through this. I would hope that's what most people are doing when they try to compare the situations.

We're still praying for you guys. I hope things get better soon. I am inspired by your willingness to do what needs to be done for your family.

Beth said...

Andrea - Please know that you didn't offend me at all. There have been some stupid comments made by a few that their husbands have steady work. I know that things can change so quickly with the economy the way it is, but it's not what we are going through. I was going to comment on your last post. It was really touching. I can only imagine your feelings using the last of the money your Dad set aside for you. Thanks for praying...will be praying for you guys too.

Bonnie said...

Beth, I'm sending lots of hugs and prayers your way!!!

Unknown said...

Beth - you and your family have been on my mind ALOT lately and I was so sad that I couldn't let you know that I've been praying for you (Our computer was out for over a week!) Just know that I am praying for you guys and I hope this "time" in your life ends soon! Huge Hugs are going your way!! Know that "this too shall pass!"