My husband is too demanding

Dear Joan,

Greetings. I have a problem and I am hoping you can advise me on the best way to deal with it. I love my husband dearly, but he is getting on my nerves right now.

I am an accountant by profession and I don't have to tell you that when you are doing this kind of work, you need to be careful and pay close attention to what you are doing. Sometimes I am so caught up in the work that I take my lunch break way in the afternoon then it's back to my desk to complete the task for the day. Some days I do check - in with him and give him a quick call, but he is always complaining that I don't love him enough. He says it should not be a big deal for me to give him a call during my work day just to let him know that I am thinking about him.

When I don't call him, he calls me saying I have forgotten that I have a husband. He gets even more upset as I tell him I am in the middle of something and cannot talk.

Honestly, Joan, I put in the hard work than I don't have to stay overtime to finish my work. that way, I get home sooner to him.

I am beginning to wonder if it makes sense rushing my work.

What can I do to get through to him?

F.R.

Dear F.R.

Calm down! It is wonderful that you have a husband who still treasures and values your attention and still wants those 'checks-in'. Of course, it can be a little overwhelming, especially when you are so involved in your job. But, it doesn't have to be as stressful as you are making it out to be. You have to come up for air at some point, right? So while you munch on your lunch, give him a quick call, let him know you can't wait to get home and how much he is on your mind!

Sometimes men can be insecure, and women too, so don't go making a mountain out of a mole hill.

Consider your husband's feelings instead of getting annoyed with him. If it's going be a hectic day, just let him know ahead of time that if you get a free minute you will buzz him and then he won't call.

There are worse things in a marriage than a husband wanting to hear from his wife when she is at work.

Blessings.

I don't like my

mother's boyfriend

Dear Joan,

My father died a few years ago and I honestly want my mother to find happiness again. Of late, she has been dating this man from a nearby church, and I can't stand him! I am not a Christian. I suppose some time in the future I might be, one but not now. My mother and I used to be each other's best friends, but since she started going out with this man, she is more into church, and the fun places we used to go, she isn't interested anymore. She is even talking about getting baptised. I accused her of her wanting to do that to be in her boyfriend's good books, but she said no, she was really unhappy and God has fulfilled her.

I think it's this man and he is always criticising my choice in songs, telling my mom that the games I play are too violent. He tells her that she is too lenient with me with the way I dress. I can't stand him! I want him out of her life.

F.L.

Dear F.L.

You sound like a very spoilt child. You have stated that you want your mother to be happy, and if that is the case, then let her be! She has found someone she loves and she has made the right choice in giving her life to the Lord. Don't blame her suitor for that. Maybe you should start paying some attention to some of what he is telling you. Personally, I am not one for violent games. I keep my child away from those too. I do believe in modest dressing. I think you might be a bit jealous because your mother's attention seems to be focused on this new man in her life. Talk to her, let her know that you feel left out, talk to her boyfriend too. I think you might surprise yourself that you could actually have a common ground to build on.

Blessings.

n Do you have an issue in the Church and need guidance? Send questions to familyandreligion@gleanerjm.com.