I, Homemaker

Breaking News: Full-Time Homemaker Goes Public

Why is there such a stigma around the old-fashioned homemaker? Why do we feel the need to say, "Well, I'm a homemaker, but I also..." What is so shameful in today's world about simply being a homemaker? Today, I decided enough was enough. I am a full-time homemaker, and I'm okay with that. No, not just okay, but happy about it! Here's why:

I am not letting womanhood down.

First of all, how arrogant I am to think that my personal choices for my private life somehow affects the course of woman as a gender. Second, how ridiculous it is for someone else to tell me what I can and can't do as a woman! This is directed at the chauvinistic voices of my past AND the ultra-feminist voices of my present. 

If I want to be a career woman, by all means I have that right. In fact, there are plenty of examples of God-fearing women who worked outside the home in the Bible who were praised for their industry and courage. But I also have the right and privilege to choose to be a homemaker, as per other examples of revered women in the Bible. After all, isn't that what the modern woman is supposed to want? The right to choose our own life path rather than what the public tells us it's supposed to be?

I am not letting the negative voices of my past win.

My life has value regardless of whether I am a CEO, a teacher, a mother, an invalid, or a childless homemaker. I spent my entire childhood listening to voices telling me that unless I was "barefoot, pregnant, and in the kitchen" (or preparing for that life), I was living outside of the biblical role of woman. My sisters, who grew up in that same culture, have rejected that mindset and are pursuing positive life goals, career and otherwise. But I have always wanted to be a homemaker, outside of the rather limited scope that I was taught homemaking is. I am fortunate enough to have that opportunity, so I am embracing the freedom of being a homemaker who is respected and supported by my husband, not crushed by an oppressive idea from my past.

It's only part of my identity.

To me, being a homemaker is not who I am, but rather a PART of who I am.  I have other dreams and goals, too. I want to remain active in crisis pregnancy ministry. Nothing can beat church life, whether it's Bible studies, praise band, potluck dinners, etc. I have student loans, so I may need to get a job that pays cold, hard cash, depending on what happens with my husband's career. But I will always be a homemaker at heart. And right now, God has given me the opportunity (and clear calling), to be a full-time homemaker.

First and foremost, my identity is defined by God. He sent His Son Jesus to die for me so that I can have a relationship with Him! In many circles, I am known as "William's wife." How much more should I be known as "God's daughter," "Jesus' friend!" My Savior has given me the desire, opportunity, and direction to be a full-time homemaker at this time. 

So why should I be ashamed of that?

The answer is: I shouldn't, and from this day forward, I am not. I am embracing my unique brand of femininity by devoting my time and energy to making my home an oasis for my husband, for any guest who walks through our door, and for myself. Some women can do that while maintaining a thriving career and I respect and admire them for that. I just don't have that desire for myself and am done trying to manufacture it.

Christ came so we could have life and live it abundantly. Being a full-time homemaker is how I am enjoying the life He gave me. I'm not apologizing any more. I'm celebrating. Who's with me?