The Man Behind the Bump

I wanted to write about someone who often gets left out of all the pregnancy gushing and baby shopping sprees. Actually, now that I think of it that someone gets left out a lot. Between showing off my new ring (that he bought), planning the wedding (that he is equally part of) and feeling my baby bump (that he helped create) somehow we forget about him. The man. You know- the other half of the equation. I think sometimes it’s easy to forget about the husband. After all he is simply doing what he is supposed to do- working hard to provide for the family day after day. 

But guess what- pregnancy is a brand new and sometimes difficult phase for him too. It isn’t just about me losing sleep and aching all over. If you’re married to a good man he has lost sleep too… because now he is taking care of two instead of one. His responsibility has already increased and I think you’d be surprised how acutely aware he is of that fact. If he is a purposeful man he is already charting out in his mind how he is going to have to change and grow to provide for a new family member. Another little person to take under his strong and steady wing. Except he probably doesn’t feel strong and steady; he probably feels timid, a little left-handed and maybe even fearful. Especially given what has been pumped into his brain by media today: that he, as almost all husbands are portrayed, is completely inept at doing anything and should just shrink down, pretend the responsibility doesn’t exist and grab the remote. But if you married a good man, like I was blessed with, he knows he can’t do that. He doesn’t want to do that. He desperately wants to step up to the challenge and deliver. 

So, instead of rushing past the dad-to-be to ask mom-to-be how she is doing… maybe take a moment and ask him. Men are so critically important to our culture, our society and our homes. Let’s remember that together. Let’s build future fathers up and remind them that God is equipping them to do the work ahead. Yes fatherhood is a great and vast calling- but it’s also extremely doable with God’s help and a little pep talk now and then. 

Men often do the dirty work of life. And a lot of what they do is not as apparent as my cute, very-noticeable baby bump. So, if you’re married take a second and thank him for all that he does for you. If you know a dad-to-be remind him that he is going to do great. If you’re expecting, like me, tell your man about just how confident you are in him. Let him know that you are absolutely sure that he is going to succeed… and that those times when he doesn’t are okay too. You’ll always be right there by his side, thanking him, praising him and encouraging him to try again.

So, thank you baby. For taking care of the two of us even before you have met one of us. I know you work hard and I know you always will. What a blessing that is. I can’t wait for our little girl to meet you and enter the world knowing she has a Dad who desperately loves her and will be her covering. Just like you’ve done for me these past almost 4 years. If a Husband ever ‘deserved’ to become a Dad- it’s you. ❤