Recently, while having lunch with some acquaintances, a comment was passed by one of the women, “I am NOT a housewife, ok?” No one seemed to have caught it or if they did, they chose to ignore it. There had been the usual exchange of small talk before that comment. But with that statement or declaration, it was clear (to me, at least) where I stood (or sat 😀 ) in this social circle. It was awkward. Because the inference was clear – she was a useful member of society and contributes much to it, while housewives obviously don’t. Maybe if I was a tai-tai housewife it would have been slightly different?
I have been a housewife since 1999. But I have never liked the term. Probably because of the connotations that come with it in today’s society. Perhaps I am shallow? Care too much about what others think of me and my achievements?
The fact is housewives do contribute to society. See Why Stay-At-Home Moms Should Earn a $115,000 Salary.
Sadly, because the contribution has no official economic value many people, especially working women, look down on us. With the government calling for women to return to the workforce to contribute financially to the family’s economic status, the view that housewives are takers instead of givers continue to be perpetuated.
Even in ministry, a wife is supposed to be up there ministering with her husband. If she is not, she is seen as not being supportive. Why can’t she be supportive without being up there? If both parents are intensely participating in the ministry, who is raising the children? Is this why ministers of God’s Word tend to limit their family size?
I have nothing against women who work and women who minister. But I would very much appreciate it if they do not judge those of us who have chosen to work and minister in a different way.