It’s one thing to work hard for your family. It’s another to feel dismissed while you’re doing it.
Maria from Chicago called in to Marriage Unhindered after a holiday where she tried her best to cook for her family and extended family, only to feel irritated by her spouse and misunderstood by others. “I just need peace and respect,” she said, describing the sting of feeling like she was “just making up my pain” when she was only trying to contribute what she could.
Host Doug Hinderer didn’t minimize her experience. “That’s real suffering,” he told her. He named it for what it is: a heavy cross to carry when you offer your best effort with a pure heart and receive no gratitude in return.
Doug reminded Maria that Jesus understands this kind of loneliness. He encouraged her to ask Our Lord for the grace to endure and to keep doing good, even when it isn’t appreciated, and even when it feels rejected.
Then he offered a hard but hope-filled perspective: “Realize that when you do these good things for your husband and your family, you’re actually doing them for Jesus.” Doug added, “And even though your husband may not appreciate it, Jesus does. And even though your husband may not thank you for it, Jesus will.”
Before they hung up, Doug promised, “I’ll say a prayer for you on my way home tonight.” He also encouraged listeners to pray a Memorare for Maria.
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