"Working mothers." This common phrase says a lot about our society's concept of motherhood, doesn't it? But since when did any mother not work? Motherhood is an enormously difficult -- even if rewarding -- job. Truth be told, it can be and often is a full-time job.
"Stay-at-home moms" are no less to be respected than those with careers outside the home. Here are some reasons why:
* Bringing up children is demanding work.
* After a silly pendulum swing in the direction of disrespect ("Oh, you don't have a real job?") in the 1970s and 1980s, the pendulum is finally swinging the other way.
Motherhood is becoming "fashionable" again.
* Women having "careers" outside the home is only a relatively recent phenomenon, anyway. In fact, men having careers outside the home is only a relatively recent phenomenon. Until the industrial revolution, most men and women worked from their homes. No office buildings, no commuting. Children grew up around their parents, typically learning their parents' skill set.
* Many mothers working jobs outside the home spend most of their extra income in child care, housecleaners, etc. Subtracting additional expenses from net income, many women are shocked to realize how little extra money they are bringing to the household finances. Having a career may substantially increase the quality of life of the household, but not necessarily!
* The Bible commands us to give mothers the respect they deserve (Proverbs 31:28-31).
Although it is not always possible, it is certainly a tremendous bonus if mothers can maximize their time with the children during the years they are still living at home. If you are a single parent -- father or mother -- you are in an exceptional position. But even in your case, the more time you can spend with the children, the better adjusted they are likely to turn out.
Stay-at-home mother or mother with an additional "career," treasure your children, making the most of the opportunities the Lord has given you!
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