I came across this article today in the UK's Daily Mail. It was asking the question if working moms should feel guilty. I want to concentrate on the first part of the story - the woman with experience. The Mother who had children and is feeling, 20 years later, regret. She worked and missed a lot of her children's life. At first she did it just because and then she was divorced and it was a necessity at that time for her to work. However, she got married again and recently chose to stay home with her children. Then she realized the error of her ways with her previous children. Here are some of her quotes:
It may seem strange to some, but it is only recently that I have felt able to acknowledge that mixing work and children comes with its downsides. Why did it take me so long? Part of me doggedly believed I had to stick to my 'line' - that work gave me independence, adventure and, of course, money. But I have to admit that another part didn't want to examine what the effect of more than 20 years of working motherhood had had on my children.
It's obvious, perhaps, but what I give them now, which I rarely could before, is my attention.
I am also happy to be discovering so much more about the joys of spending real, unrushed time with them.
Her answer to those choosing to work over staying home with their children:
'Are you sure that it's the right thing to do for everyone - children and husband included - and not just you?'
When you stop and look it at, you see that it isn't about you anymore. It is about your children. They need love and attention! You let go of your selfishness and love of money. You realize the things in life that are most important are the things you can take to Heaven with you.
