The Dignity of Work

Work, as a noun, is defined (among other meanings) as the exertion, effort, to produce or accomplish something; productive activity ;and of industry especially as a means of earning one's livelihood.

Now, just where am I going with this? On a rant, as usual, so bear with me.  Earlier this week, a talking head stated that "Ann Romney has never worked a day in her life," and was excoriated by everyone for having the audacity to speak the truth.  Of course, she (Mrs. Romney) worked--she chose to stay home and raise five boys--hard work. Before we pounce on the initial statement or bow to Mrs. Romney's claims of motherhood being hard work, let's get real.

Being a mother is hard work as most of us, male and female, will testify. And, it has its benefits.  However, wouldn't all working mothers, those employed outside of the home, prefer to be a stay-at-home mother? Especially if we had the benefit of nannies and assorted household staff to perform everyday chores?  To only have to decide which Cadillac to drive on any given day?  Not to have to worry about childcare, which bill to pay this month, how to pay unexpected medical bills, or how to stretch the food budget? We won't mention saving for college or trying to obtain the numerous items to provide your child with a well-rounded childhood--involvement in sports, cultural activities, tutors, etc., come to mind. While technically a "stay-at-home mother," Mrs. Romney hasn't encountered any of those day-to-day struggles most women deal with daily.  She hasn't "worked a day in her life."

Interestingly, Mr. Romney, who aspires to be the next commander in chief, feels that the children of the poor need to go to daycare so that their mothers can enjoy the "dignity of work."  I guess that these children are non-deserving of having a mother whose job is as a "stay-at-home" mother. Don't believe me? Check out his remarks from January of this year:

Mitt Romney: Mothers Should Be Required To Work Outside Home Or Lose Benefits

www.huffingtonpost.com

Now, don't get me wrong.  I'm all for people working.  I don't believe that you should "ride" the public dole.  But I have to ask Mr. Romney, according to your wife's definition, don't these mothers "work"?  I would daresay that they work harder than the wife of a multimillionaire. And what about those stay-at-home mothers who take care of other children while trying to make ends meet?  Surely, there is dignity in that. 


Maybe we should acknowledge that the role of a stay-at-home mother is dignified whether you are rolling in the money or on the public dole.


Be safe. Be Blessed.