How do you handle ethical differences between spouses?

[AServantofGod]

I have an ethical dilemma. My husband brings home items from work (small items) for the family to use. He says that they have so many of X-item that they don’t know what to do with it.

I don’t use the items (when I know they are from his office); however, he hands them to the children to use. I’ve brought up my concerns but don’t want to destroy peace in the home by persisting & nagging. I don’t want to bring down my husband in my children’s eyes either so don’t know quite how to tell them not to use these items.

There are other ethical concerns as well, but might as well start with this one.

How would you suggest approaching this subject?

 

[geezerbob]

You don’t say what religion your husband is, so I’ll assume he is Christian. I would tell him in private and very firmly that it is stealing and is a sin, then pray for him.

 

[awalt]

I think in many cases like this, Christ wants us to just do our best job - it is not our place to pass judgment, for example. Some simple communication as has been suggested is one approach. Prayer is another. Many times I think as Catholics we can lead by example as well. Maybe acts of charity on behalf of the family.

Like God, who I am sure weeps at some of the decisions we make but refuses to control us or make those decisions, we cannot control their decisions either. Prayer, example, communication when it may be received well are typical choices I think.

 

[newf]

I would pack up the items and give them to your husband. Tell him this is stealing and these things need to go back. I wouldn’t let the children play with them. If the children ask, I would say “Dad made a mistake by bringing these home, they need to go back”.

This isn’t about nagging. This is a character problem with your husband.

But it sounds like you already voiced your concerns and your husband really doesn’t care how you feel or what you say…I think that’s a bigger problem than the stealing.