The story is told of two men, both married to their respective wives for just over a year. They were discussing the adjustment that accompanies such a major transition, and in particular, the challenge of managing the family’s finances.
“I’m the head of my house,” the first man said dogmatically. “I think I should be; after all, I earn the money.”
“Well,” the other man replied, thinking himself more egalitarian, “my wife and I have a perfect agreement. I decide all the major matters and she takes care of all minor matters.”
“And how is that working out?” came the earnest reply.
“Well,” he admitted, “so far, no major matters have come up.”
Study after study suggests that money is at the heart of much marital discord, and for obvious reason. We live in a culture that’s constantly trying to convince us that happiness can be ours for a price. It’s a lie. But yet many couples and families find themselves in debt and despair, pursuing the phantom promise that good times come by purchasing “good” things.
As you know, we’ve regularly featured radio programming, books and articles on the matter of better managing our finances. To access some of that information, I would invite you to click here.
Jean and I nicely complement each other, and we regularly talk about our expenses and ways to conserve. For us, I have assumed primary responsibility of paying the bills.
But here’s an opportunity for a two-way conversation:
Who manages the family budget in your family – and how is it working out?
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