A stay-at-home mom writes to advice columnist R. Eric Thomas about her husband’s disapproval of her newfound friendships with two other moms in their neighborhood. They have become close and spend time together regularly, providing much-needed social interaction for her and her children during the pandemic. However, her husband has various excuses for why he doesn’t approve of these friendships, such as concerns about their children’s behavior and their husbands’ intentions, which she finds unfounded and unreasonable.
Thomas advises the mom to have a frank conversation with her husband about the importance of these friendships to her well-being and happiness. She should make it clear that her friendships contribute to her mental health and make her a better mother and wife, and that his support is necessary for her happiness. If he is not willing to support her in this, it may signify a deeper problem in their relationship that needs to be addressed.
Ultimately, the mom should not entertain further complaints from her husband about her friendships and should prioritize her own happiness. Thomas suggests that the husband’s insecurity and lack of understanding may be the root of his disapproval, and that it is his responsibility to work on these issues. The mom should stand firm in her need for support and understanding in her friendships, and not let her husband’s unfounded concerns dictate her social life.
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