I’ve been getting a lot of questions and even judgment about my husband Reggie not working. So, I want to take a moment to share my truth because, honestly, I’m completely fine with it — and here’s why.
Reggie is a retired football player. His career on the field ended years ago, and since then, he hasn’t had a traditional job. Some people might look at that and jump to conclusions or think it’s a problem. But for us, it’s never been an issue. In our marriage, I’m the breadwinner, and he supports me in so many ways that go far beyond a paycheck.
I believe every relationship is unique. What works for one couple might not work for another. Society often has these rigid ideas about roles — that the man has to be the provider, and the woman can’t be the one “holding things down.” But those outdated views don’t define us. What matters most is the love, respect, and teamwork you have with your partner.
For me, being the one who brings in the income isn’t about power or control. It’s about doing what’s best for our family. Reggie’s support is priceless. He’s there emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. He’s my rock, my biggest cheerleader, and the person who makes sure I’m balanced when life gets crazy. The way he lifts me up, encourages me, and shares in the household responsibilities means more to me than any dollar amount.
There’s this idea that financial contribution is the only way to “pull your weight” in a relationship. But I’m here to say that’s not true. Support comes in many forms — cooking dinner, managing the kids, being a listening ear after a long day, or just being present and dependable. Reggie does all of that and more. The things he does that you can’t see or put a price on are what truly keep our marriage strong.
I’m proud to be a woman who can stand on her own two feet and provide for her family. I don’t shy away from responsibility or hard work. But that doesn’t mean I expect Reggie to do the same job I do. We each have different strengths, and our partnership is built on mutual understanding and respect.
I know people outside of our relationship might not understand this dynamic. They might judge or criticize without knowing the full story. But that’s okay. What we have is real, it’s loving, and it works for us. At the end of the day, it’s about being happy and healthy as a couple, not conforming to what others think a marriage “should” look like.
So, to anyone out there feeling pressure to fit a mold that doesn’t suit their relationship, I say: do what feels right for you. Love and support don’t always come with a paycheck, and that’s perfectly okay.
Reggie and I are partners in every sense of the word. I hold things down financially, and he holds me up emotionally. Together, we’re unstoppable.
