Sunday, December 31, 2023

HAPPY END OF 2023

Dear All,  I hope that the end of 2023 finds you happy and healthy and that 2024 brings even more good things to you and yours. Many of us are still floundering in the wonders and trepidation that life continually throws at us, just to keep us on our toes, like this gent from Los Angeles...

Dear Suze Q.  My marriage of 3 happy years and 18 years of nagging is ending. I am not happy. My wife works hard on everything but the marriage. She has a good paying job, so there are many times I stay at home with the kids until she gets home, without a word of thanks.  I am an entrepreneur and my income is not steady. I am an AA sponsor and a certified addiction counselor with unpredictable hours and income. This year I am getting my certification and license as both a Life Coach and Minister. I might also take in a foster child. My plan is to significantly increase my income. I am not agreeing to a divorce, and really want a counselor to make her see that I am an equal partner in all things except money. And stop this foolish notion. In the LA area how do I pick a therapist? Are there marriage counselors that can help me and work out a payment plan? I think a woman could talk to her better than a man, but will a woman automatically take her side? Do you recommend a therapist? I am not sure I can get her to see a shrink, but I am willing to try anything.  Thank you, Looking for a Lifeline

Dear Looking, You have valid concerns and it may be very helpful if you and your wife see a counselor.  Balance and mutual respect in a marriage is more than about money.  This topic might be only a surface issue but a good place to begin a honest dialogue so be prepared for more serious topics to emerge.  Keep an open-mind and dig deep into your own contributions to the marriage problems and successes.  Hiring a counselor is like shopping for any other professional.  Check their experience and expertise to fit your particular problems.  Licensed counselors take ethical oaths to be unbiased and professional, so check their licenses through their State Board before engaging their services.  SQ 


 

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