The Great Mom Debate

So, who has it worse? The stay-at-home mom or the working mom. I hear so much discussion. Both sides claiming no one has any idea how hard they work and how easy the other has it. I recently had a play date with 2 other moms: 1 works as a full-time stay-at-home mom, the other works part-time outside the home and I work full-time outside the home. As we were talking, this topic came up. Instead of, "You have no idea how hard I work," I heard us saying things like, "I don't know how you do it," "You are so lucky," "I admire you" to each other. I was so taken back by the positive comments since it is in such contrast to how we women usually treat each other.

Why do we, and by we I mean me, feel like we have to "one up" each other when talking about our jobs? Why do we minimize the work of others as if that will somehow make our work more appreciated? Why do we lack so much confidence in our work that we need it validated by others.

So, I have it figured out. Yup, Me and my 27, almost 28 years (YIKES) of life, has the answer to this great debate. Who has the harder job? Guess what ladies, you both do! It is my belief that there is no job more difficult than being a parent. And let's not leave dad out either. Raising kids is tough, whether you work inside or outside of your home. You have a daunting task in front of you. So, yeah you, you win! You win 18+ years of the hardest job in the world that carries the best, most rewarding payout.

As I thought about my job, I was convicting to really start focusing and communicating the "pros" that I encounter every day. I feel fortunate. I am a teacher. As a teacher, I get to work 9-10 months a year and be off the entire summer. Are those 9 months tough with many long hours/days? Yes, just ask my hubby. But they are so worth it. I to stay home and work. SO, here's just a few things I love about being a stay-at-home mom and a working mom.


Stay at Home MOM

1. Getting dressed can mean just changing into clean jammies
2. I can shower when I want
3. No make-up
4. I get to spend the whole day with my kids teaching them about Jesus
5. I get to go on playdates
6. I can nap :)
7. I walk away exhausted but happy

Working Mom
1. I get to wear nice clothes that don't have boogers
2. I'm forced to start my day
3. Make - up
4. I get to teach kids about Jesus,and be in my church
5. I get to have lunch with girlfriends everyday
6. I get to impact the lives of children other than my own
7. I walk away exhausted but happy




So, no matter where you find your job right now, find a way to honor God. If you're not honoring Him in whatever you are doing, then none of it really matters anyway. We're all fighting the same fight. Let's fight it together. I guarantee if you are having a bad day, there's another mom out there feeling the exact same way. And if they tell you they're not ... they're probably putting on a brave face. Wherever you are working, know you are a great mom with lots of valuable work on your resume. Don't let anyone take that from you :) Now, go be a fantastic mom!