Dear Ralph: Should I tell my family?

Dear Ralph,
       I am in a tight corner right now in my life. I am a married man with kids. I am 32 years of age and I have hit rock bottom. I was sacked from my job early this year and I have been searching for a job since then. Things have been really hard on me and I have been trying to keep it together for some time now. The problem is that my wife and family do not know that I have lost my job. I think my wife suspects but I am not sure, she acts funny at times and I don't mean that in a bad way. I still leave the house every morning dressed like I am about to go to my work but I just go out and go job hunting. I have been supporting the family from my little savings since this happened but I am reaching my limit. I might not be able to carry the family anymore at this rate. I don't know if it's my pride but I just don't feel right telling the wife about this, a part of me just wants to keep quiet and sort through it and only disclose it when I have secured a job. I am kind so confused. Was wondering if you could offer any advice or solution to this. I would really appreciate.

                                                                                                                                           Anonymous







Dear Anonymous,
       I think you should actually involve your wife in this situation. I think she deserves to know the situation that the family is in. She is your partner and even though I know you might want to protect her from feeling afraid and have her feel taken care of, it is no use lying to her. I understand you leaving out the kids but I really think you need to tell your wife. You will never know, she might be able to help, offer some suggestions or if she is a house wife she might decide to start working and support the family until you are back on your feet. Just forget about your pride for now and think of what is best for your wife and kids.
   Also there might be some unnecessary expenses being made that is helping run down your cash reserve faster each time and it can be curtailed if you just tell your wife about the problem. She can start watching different things in the house and watch her personal spending also if she is among the big spenders. Also she can help you re-plan and strategies ways to save money and survive the family until you sort yourself out. Two heads are better than one , you need your woman by your side at this point.
    At the end of the day you know your wife best and you are the one that knows how she would react to the news. I hope she is an understanding woman and that she would be able to make adjustments. If she gets angry then just remain calm and remember that if her anger is because you didn't let her know on time then she kind of has a point on you.
     I really hope you find a job soon and hope that everything works out well for you and your family. Take care brother...

                                                                                                                                                      Ralph