I Didn't Tell The Truth About My Job Status

It's hard enough being a parent to young kids without the added stress of them constantly asking about work. Last week, my son asked me if I was going back to my old job soon because he misses when we used to have those days together at home. To be honest, it broke my heart a bit hearing him say that, but here's where I made a tiny white lie: I told him yes, I would be heading back within the next few months. The truth is, there’s no job for me right now and even if one were available, it wouldn’t pay what we need to cover our expenses comfortably, let alone provide us with the stability that I feel my family deserves. The moment of saying yes was painful. I know deep down he won't remember this conversation in a year or two, but lying, even for such a small thing, feels like it chips away at who we are as parents and people. Still, when you're looking out for the ones you love most, sometimes it feels necessary to protect them from worry and heartache, even if it means not being completely truthful in that moment.