Working Moms, You Are Appreciated

Working Moms, You Are Appreciated

This morning I read that as of 2015, nearly 70% of American mothers with minor children were either employed or looking for employment. Other studies show the growing trend of women becoming the breadwinners in today's society due to the recession taking many jobs that were predominantly male dominated. It's a reality we have to face that the growing cost of living and nearly stagnant wages are increasing the demand for both spouses to work outside of the home just to be able to afford housing and food.

I have been a stay-at-home mom before, and it was a huge blessing. Stay-at-home moms, you are appreciated. We have done well as the Christian community to show them more appreciation and respect over the years, recognizing that they don't sit at home all day and do nothing and that they are a vital part in their children's spiritual growth, and  man, how smoothly they can make a house run on a daily basis! I've said it once and I'll say it again, I find that staying home with a child(ren) under 2 is more mentally taxing for me than going to my 8:30-5 job five days a week. While I'm at work, a stay-at-home-mom watches my children for a very reasonable price and I am so grateful for that.

But all that to say, it seems rare that women are valued and appreciated for working outside of the home. My perception may be wrong but it does appear that, in both Christian and nonChristian circles, it isn't looked at so much as a sacrifice, but as just a choice. In the past, if a woman chose to work outside the home instead of staying home with her kids, it was personal preference and less of a financial reason. But today, most women have taken on the task of being full time mom, full time wife, and full time employee because they simply have no other choice. While the minority, I've even heard views that women who work outside the home are selfish, putting their career before their children.  This comes from well-meaning people but it is hurtful and simply inaccurate.

I just want to say that to all my fellow working moms, you are appreciated, and valued, and loved. The Lord sees the sacrifice you are making so that your family does not go without. Perhaps it is only for a season, so that your husband can finish his degree without you going into serious debt for student loans. Perhaps it is for a long while because your husband is unemployed, sick, or maybe he chose to leave the marriage. Or maybe for a while, your family runs a bit better if you are away from them for a few hours a day. For whatever the reason, when you come home at the end of the day having missed your children, and now with the limited daylight left you have to clean a house, cook supper, and do it all over again the next day, be encouraged that you are doing the right thing for you and your family and ultimately the only one you have to please is God.