Though I’ve already used Jon and Kate to discuss a topic previously, they make it just so easy that I’m going to go ahead and do it again. The latest on the couple seems to signal the beginning of the end of their relationship. Those who watch the series probably won’t be surprised by this turn of events, given the numerous allegations of infidelity being slung around the Internet. Myself, I can only surmise that increasing public scrutiny just keeps adding up with each successive season; even the strongest committed couple would feel the strain eventually.
The referring article mentions that Kate’s being away on her book tour has made Jon resent his parental duties, and that’s probably likely. This happens more often than is admitted; there is an unspoken rule that you never admit to feeling any sort of resentment about your family, though of course such feelings are only natural. Admitting them is not a weakness, or confession of inability.
But it can be very difficult to watch a spouse be more successful than you are, in whatever form that might take. It isn’t glamorous to be the responsible parent, and the job frequently goes underappreciated. What can be done to ameliorate the negative effects of frequent travel, increased alone time, and preferential treatment? Share the benefits with your stay-at-home spouse.
When you return, make sure to give your less-lucky partner time away of his/her own. Schedule a sitter for your child, and treat your S.O. to a night out at the venue of her choice. Bring home little gifts for the rest of the family. Most of all, make sure you keep the lines of communication open, even while on the road. Remind your spouse and child that they’re the most important thing in the world to you, and that you miss them, and that you’ll be home soon. No one like to feel neglected, and it’s easy to forget “the little people” when you’re out on the road.
