Coronavirus Stole My Job And Tested My Marriage

I lost my job just before the lockdown due to the Coronavirus pandemic. I had been the hotel manager for six years, but when the decision was made, my tenure and accolades meant nothing. Being the longest-serving employee and having won the best staff award for three consecutive years didn’t matter. Even the fact that my wife was six months pregnant didn’t influence their choice. “Things are not right,” they said. “Hopefully, it won’t be for too long. When things return to normal, we’ll bring you back.”

I took my termination letter, packed my few belongings into a bag, and said goodbye to the only colleague still at work. When I got home, I handed the letter to my wife. She wasn’t shocked, as I had hinted at it before, but she began to worry about what lay ahead. I reassured her, “Everything will be fine. Let’s stay calm.” She replied, “Thank goodness we managed to pay our rent last month. We can make do with what we have.”

A week later, the lockdown was announced. That’s when my wife, who teaches, also faced issues with her employer. They received half of their salary for March because many students hadn’t paid their fees before being sent home. They informed her, “It’s unlikely staff will be paid for April since there’s no money for salaries. As long as the kids are at home, teachers won’t be compensated.”

Understanding the challenges ahead, we began to manage our remaining resources carefully. The uncertainty of the pandemic is overwhelming; we have no idea when it will end, which disrupts our plans and daily lives. I don’t know when I’ll find a new job or if I’ll be recalled. My wife is uncertain about when she’ll receive her salary. Our future feels bleak and uncertain.

This situation reminds me of what my wife’s mother said when we were about to marry. She disapproved of our union, claiming, “This guy is just starting out. He has nothing to rely on when challenges arise.” At that time, I was selling insurance policies, a job without a guaranteed monthly income. Some months were good, but many were tough. I had dreams of a better future, but her mother didn’t believe in that.

Unbeknownst to me, she had plans to marry her daughter off to another man abroad. However, her daughter loved me and wanted to be with me. Despite her mother’s efforts, she couldn’t succeed. My wife’s father supported our relationship and encouraged her to follow her heart. Her mother never forgave me for winning her daughter’s love.

Recently, I looked at my wife and thought, “Maybe your mother was right. I’m not good enough for you. You deserve more than a man who loses his job just as your salary stops.” She’s always been supportive of me and my dreams, happy when we have enough and understanding when times are tough.

A few days ago, she asked, “Should I call my mom for help? No matter what, I’m still her daughter, and she’ll always support me.”

I looked into her eyes and said, “No. Leave it to me. I’ll figure something out.” Honestly, it’s challenging to find a solution given my situation, but I don’t want her mother to come in and say, “I told you so.” That would break my spirit. It’s not my fault that COVID-19 happened and took away our livelihood, but I don’t want her mother to rub it in my face.

But how long will this lockdown last?

Will it end soon so the kids can return to school? Some say it will last until June, while others believe it will end shortly. Many think the world is far from recovery, so we should prepare ourselves. If it extends beyond June, we’ll be in serious trouble. My wife is due in June, and a new baby brings new expenses we won’t be able to manage.

She said, “If things remain the same by June, we’ll have no choice but to talk to my mother. Every marriage faces challenges because no marriage is perfect, but it’s our responsibility to make it work. We need help. Let’s set aside our pride and ask. We won’t die.”

I know she’s right, but I want to avoid that situation. A few nights ago, I prayed, “If you’re using Corona to test our marriage, God, we’re nearing our breaking point. Please help us, and we’ll remain faithful to you.” He didn’t respond, but I believe He will perform a miracle for us.

—Arthur

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