The male ego is very, very delicate. It seems as though they need to learn what they need to learn on their own - the hard way. While it doesn't make much sense to us, its the way a lot of men are wired. Maybe trying the supportive ONLY approach would entice him over to 'your side' of thinking.

As in, only offer him positive reinforcement for the number of resumes and jobs applied for (or whatever job searching he's doing). At least he's applying. When he see's you're only there to be supportive and only want him to be happy (ie: with a job, and feeling good that he can support a family - males are VERY sensitive to that), he'll be more inclined to ask YOUR advice.

Maybe just try that for a week and see what comes of it.

Looking back at my marriage with David, I wish like heck I would have taken a more supportive approach to A LOT of things vs. just me reacting and wanting it done my way. I think that I really would have gotten what I wanted in the end had I only had been supportive - a husband that WANTED to succeed to make ME happy, to support us. I can honestly say that if I took that approach, I KNOW in my heart things would have worked out for us. I'm not saying this is "THE ANSWER" for you, but maybe its worth a try.

Whatever works, you'll be in my prayers. Its so hard when the person you rely on isn't doing what we think should be done. Its hard to depend on another human being, especially when things like the morgage and FOOD are in question. I truly feel your pain, Kim, and I hope it all works out for everyone involved.

Hugs & Love,
Kelly