Does the ideal marriage actually exist? I would imagine not. Although rewarding, relationships involve compromise, patience, and endurance—just like anything else in life that's worth doing, I suppose. That said, dealing with a critical partner can be a burden to anyone's home life and self-esteem.

According to some, critical partners are likely unhappy themselves. Perhaps they were raised in an overbearing household or are dealing with their own feelings of inadequacy. More likely than not, they have a negative outlook in general.

Regardless, their attitude adds stress to any living situation. Manga artist and designer Shibatama ( shibatamaa) illustrated a scene from a follower's life. The reader was overwhelmed in the early days of raising her son. Unfortunately, her husband was unsympathetic to her situation and often criticized her oversights at home.

© Shibatama (shibatamaa)

© Shibatama (shibatamaa)

© Shibatama (shibatamaa)

© Shibatama (shibatamaa)

© Shibatama (shibatamaa)

© Shibatama (shibatamaa)

© Shibatama (shibatamaa)

© Shibatama (shibatamaa)

© Shibatama (shibatamaa)

And just like that, a few stern words from Mom set him straight.

Shibatama regularly pens expressive yet good-natured manga that take a reflective stance on every day instances. You can see more posts here or on the artist’s Instagram. Shibatama also has a book available on Amazon.


By - Luke Mahoney.