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Question: Dear Rita, I have been getting doubts lately concerning our homeschooling vocation. We live in a rural area with little homeschooling resources (museums, support groups etc). There are very few homeschooling families in this area and my children don't really have any friends to connect with. I am mostly concerned for my two older children that are getting to an age that they need more social interaction. We have no family in the area, which makes it all the more difficult. I think I would be able to continue homeschooling if I had more support and fellowship. My husband is very supportive of homeschooling, so that is not an issue. I am feeling very isolated and discouraged that I am doing them more harm than good by isolating them so much. I have thought of placing the older boys in school just so they can have friends and a normal life. My husband recently lost his job and we are contemplating researching other areas to live. I think if I had a community that offered more for homeschooling families I could continue. I have struggled trying to discern this, bouncing back and forth, weighing out the pros and cons of both. I can't seem to feel at peace with any answer.
Answer:

Dear Mom,

Let us begin in prayer. Lord, we ask that You sustain and shelter this dear family from the effects of unemployment. Lord, allow that they are able to weather this storm through Your graces. Lord, embrace them and hold them close during this very difficult time. Amen.

I have read many essays about the positive side effects of losing one's job. This is not to say that there are not real effects that have the potential to try a family's resolve and resources. But with all that aside, it could be a blessing in disguise. It sounds as if your husband is ready to look for opportunities that might be better for your entire family. Could it be that this latest setback will in the long run be the catalyst that allows your family to move to a more supportive community?

There are certainly areas of the country that offer homeschooling families many resources and a sense of community. Will it be possible for your dear husband to find employment elsewhere? During this time of transition what appears to be the best option for your homeschooling efforts? Is it going to be necessary for you to work outside the home in order to allow for an income?

Many times when we are struggling to know the will of the Lord, it does seem quite confusing. I believe that many times we just have to make a choice and then go forward into that choice. If doors open, opportunities present or a certain feeling that this is the way to go prevails then continue in that direction. Sometimes the Tempter wants the Lord's little ones to feel that the Lord is unable to guide us in the correct path. Praying thus: "Lord, I am going to go in this direction. If this is not Your will please allow that I know this and guide me accordingly," is indeed the prayer of a child with child-like confidence.

During this time of discernment, take the opportunity to research the areas of the country that would be a good fit for you and your family. Enlist the children's help in this matter and encourage them to talk freely about their doubts and desires as well.

I admire you very much. You are facing a difficult time to be sure. However your steadfast faith and holy witness will teach your dear children more than any book could. Go forward without fear. Pray for the intercession of St. Joseph and his kind attention to the sorrows that you are facing.

Sending out a prayer,

Rita Munn

   
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