"I’ve come to ask myself the very questions you so pointedly spelled out: Maybe I’m getting over-involved? Maybe I’m neglecting my children?”
Dear Mother Trying Her Best,
I read your letter about your frustration with the Doctor Mom article, and didn’t understand where you were coming from. I also run a busy household, trying to balance work, kids, laundry, groceries, and everything else. I work in education and have no interest in going to medical school. Or back to school at all.
I also don’t want to be a glass blower, bee keeper, interior designer, business owner, food blogger, or any of the many other professions that Family First often profiles. When I read those articles, I don’t feel incompetent, I think, “interesting, good for her,” and turn the page. I’m perfectly content serving my family cholent and kugel on Shabbos without charcuterie boards and have no plans to buy plants or candles to decorate my living room. And that’s fine.
I also didn’t read that article and wish my husband were any more than he already is. He may not drive me to work every day (which would be silly — we have two cars), but he’s there for me when and how I need him. Her marriage has no bearing on mine.
You asked how this article left anyone feeling inspired. I’m sure many people were. I’m sure it inspired girls who want to go to medical school but don’t know if it’s possible to balance it with a frum family. It probably inspired many baalei teshuvah hoping that their new lifestyle won’t prevent them from following their dreams. Maybe it inspired women whose children are leaving home and they’re now considering a career change.
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