I cringe every time I see a blog or article that pits working mothers against stay-at-home mothers. The term "working mother" when used in comparison with "stay-at home mother" insinuates that the latter is not working...noooo they are sitting at home, in front of the television, eating bon-bons all day. What a crock!
Staying at home with your children, and managing to keep them engaged is probably one of the toughest challenges a parent could take on. I have a lot of respect girlfriends of mine that live this life. Its a life with great rewards and benefits, but make no mistake - it isnt easy. These mothers don't get a lunch hour, smoke break, or time to chat at the water cooler. Their challenge is balance - where in the day does the mommy turn into a wife, a woman?
Working outside of the home has its own, different challenges. I am not home with my son during the day, though I am blessed to have found child-care that is both enriching and loving. I work, on average, 8-10 hours a day. My husband takes our son to school and picks him up. I miss out on a lot of things, and I really hate that. But guilt has no place in a happy home. My son and I have quality time every morning before I leave and every evening before he goes to bed. We read, play, dance, act foolish - and its the highlight of my day. the challenge for the mother that works outside the home is balance. it is like two full time jobs on a part time schedule.
The greatest gift we, as women and mothers, can give each other is the gift of understanding and empathy. No one wins in the show down between us, and besides that - its an unecessary exercise. We are all working toward the same goal- happy, well adjusted children that turn in to good, independent people.
I tip my hat (well, i would if I had one) to all of my fellow mothers, working both inside and outside of the home - for the dedication and love you give. Lets all support one another, shall we?
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