All moms are working moms

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Recognizing some of the cornerstone members of our society.








Since it's May, I thought it would be appropriate to reflect on the nature of motherhood as Mother's Day (the US version anyway) is celebrated on the second Sunday of May each year. May is also dedicated to Mary, the Mother of Christ and the Church. 

Over the past 50-60 years or so, there has been a surge in the number of women in the workforce. Which is a good thing. However, there's an unfortunate mindset that has sprung up as a result: the idea that for a lady to be successful, she must join the workforce.

Being a man, there's an aspect to this conundrum that I won't fully be able to understand or relate to. But I just feel as if there's been a neglect of the importance of motherhood in our society. Terms such as 'housewife' or 'stay-at-home mom' are now perceived as somewhat derogatory terms, as if dedicating one's life to domestic affairs is a waste of one's potential. This is a toxic and dangerous mindset.

'Housewives' are the bedrock of our society. They are the champions who raise the labour force of the future. They turn houses into homes, ensuring that the needs of the household are catered for. There's a saying that 'behind every successful man, there's a strong woman.' More often than not, that strong woman is a 'stay-at-home mom.' Whilst fathers have an essential role in bringing up children, there's a level of caregiving that's unique to mothers, who are biologically and psychologically wired to nurture children. There's something about expecting a baby for 9 months and then raising it that creates a bond between mother and child that borderlines on psychic at times.

It's great that women are getting more employment and business opportunities. I'm glad that my mother has gotten the opportunity to develop her career. But I'm most grateful for the fact that she taught me how to tie my shoes, cooks me delicious and nutritious meals and gives me a hug when I need it. Being a 'stay-at-home' mom isn't a form of employment. It's a vocation, a calling. I salute whoever has answered that call, and I hope and pray that more ladies do so in the future. The well-being of our society depends on it.
 

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