It’s important for men to understand that as women get older, it’s not always easy for them to keep up the same pace at home. When you notice this, don’t lose your temper. Some women can be a bit oversensitive.
Take me, for example. My name is Mike. When I retired a few years ago, my wife, Pat, had to start working two jobs — one full-time and one part-time — to cover our expenses and health insurance. Naturally, I began noticing the signs of her age.
We usually get home around the same time. I’m starving after a day at the golf course, but Pat often says she needs half an hour to rest before starting dinner. Do I yell? Of course not! I simply tell her to take her time — and wake me once dinner is ready. After all, I eat lunch at the club, so I’m really counting on a good home-cooked meal in the evening.
In the past, she used to do the dishes right after dinner. Nowadays, they sometimes sit for hours. I try to help by politely reminding her — several times — that they won’t wash themselves. She always seems motivated by this gentle encouragement.
She also complains that paying bills during her lunch break is stressful. I tell her not to worry — just spread it out over two or three days. That way, she doesn’t need to rush. And frankly, skipping lunch once in a while might not be the worst thing for her figure (if you know what I mean).
Even mowing the lawn seems to tire her quickly. She’ll stop halfway for a break. I don’t make a fuss. I’m a fair man. I suggest she pour herself a cold glass of fresh lemonade… and since she’s already in the kitchen, she may as well make one for me too.
I know I must sound like a saint with all the patience and consideration I show. Not every man can manage this level of tact. But if you, my fellow husbands, can learn to criticize less and encourage more, then my words will have been worth it. After all, we’re here to support one another.
Editor’s Note:
Mike died suddenly on July 23 from a perforated rectum. The police report stated he was discovered with a 50-inch Big Bertha golf driver lodged deep where the sun doesn’t shine, with only a few inches of grip showing — and a sledgehammer nearby.
His wife, Pat, was arrested and charged with murder. An all-woman jury took just 10 minutes to find her Not Guilty, fully accepting her defense that Mike must have accidentally sat down on his own golf club.
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