It's ok to say it...
I truly believe we were created to work. I even believe we will all have jobs in Heaven. I also 100% believe that being a mother/stay at home mother is a legit job. Just like any job it takes certain talents and abilities to be a full time homemaker. Some women were made for it, some designed to do it for a season of their life, and for some it's just not their cup of tea. However, in society today it seems like once we become a mom the decision to stay home or go back to work is like the giant elephant in the room. We are judged by either one we choose. Oh and heaven forbid you ever confess that you don't thoroughly enjoy wiping butts, playing referee, or folding laundry just to have it unfolded seconds later every day. Well here it goes....I'm going to say it.......
GOD DID NOT CREATE ME TO BE A FULL TIME STAY AT HOME MOM (at least for this season in my life) and it has taken me a while to be okay with saying that.
This past Saturday was my first day back to work. I'd be lying if I said it wasn't hard. I got teary eyed when I pulled out of the driveway leaving my family behind on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. But the second I opened the doors to Saks Fifth Avenue and smelled the perfume in the air, saw all the beautiful red and gold Christmas decorations, and heard the clicking of high heels on the tile floor I felt a permanent smile crease across my face and I knew it was going to be a great day!
The whole drive there I had mixed emotions. I was sad about leaving, but excited all at the same time. And I felt guilty for the excitement that I had. As I was talking to God out loud in the car He said to me two things. First "it's ok to be excited. I gave you these talents and I'm so happy to see you using them" and "use this opportunity I am giving you to be a light for me." Colossians 3:23 immediately came to my head. "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as if working for the Lord not men." When I look at my job from that perspective all the anxiety I have completely goes away and I can barely wait to get on with blessing others that day.
So for now I will be playing the role of mommy and freelance makeup artist and I'm finally cool with saying that out loud. I feel very fortunate to have found a way to do both things that I love. Taking time on my hair and makeup, strapping on some heels, and leaving my boys for a couple hours during the week refreshes me and makes me a better mommy to them so we all win! And for those women out there who would love to stay home with their children, but the timing just isn't right I'd say to you bring it to God. He is after all the one who put those desires in your heart. He knows what you were created for; what makes you thrive, and is actively working on ways to bring specific opportunities your way. It may not be this year, it may not be till 5 years from now, but He is listening, and He has the ultimate timing.
Whether you're working in the corporate world, running an online business, or being a stay at home mom let everything you do be to glorify Him, to share the story of His love and grace. And for heaven sakes don't let the talents God gave you go unused! Don't be afraid to take that leap of faith. This could be as simple as volunteering at your church or as complex as moving out of state. Your hearts desires aren't there by accident. It is all part of your mission here on earth. So watch and listen for the moments when He is nudging you to say YES.
(Batman Kemp trying to come to work with me)
Psalm 37:4
1 Corinthians 10:31