“It feels like heavy weights pressing down on my shoulders.”

“I would describe it like rope tied tight around my chest making it hard to breathe.”

“To me it is like rocks just sitting in my stomach.”

As I talk with pastor’s wives these are some statements I hear when they are describing the weight of expectations being placed upon them. Honestly, these are some of the words I have used to describe the same weight I often experience.

Relief has come in the form of not having to do the same crazy Sunday morning ritual. You know, the routine of trying to get kids dressed, fed, and out the door in time to make it to church. The routine of sitting in the pew alone while our husbands are preaching. The routine of fielding all of the pre and post church questions and concerns. The routine of facing the weekly expectations. The routine of conflicts and heated members meetings. The disruption to this routine feels relieving.