Hey Everyone!
I read the article, and I'll just say that I'm not really 100% impressed. Now I give Michelle credit for balancing a 300,000 dollar a year job with family life, but tell me how realistic is that? Sure its easy to put your family first when you and your husband bring in a million dollars a year, but for the normal, most common American family where both parents are working 40 plus hours a week, sometimes spending the quality time with their children that michelle does with hers, isn't an option.
It's almost a matter of opinion on what people consider putting their family first. For my parents working long 12 hour days and overtime on the weekend, was their way of showing me how important I was to them. They worked to provide me with a fulfilling life, and to make sure I had everything my heart desired...plus more. When you work in a high end job, most companies, esp if you are at the top, allow some room to incorporate your family into your buisness schedule. There are policies that allow women to bring their children to work, or even policies that mandate company daycares...but come on...thats not really realistic in your 12 hour shift at the local McDonalds.
So Yes, I applaud Michelle for being able to balance her husbands career, hers, and raising a family, but she doesn't deserve a medal. She is just like any other parent, but she has an added advantage.
I mean am I alone on this?
Just because she is in the spot light doesn't necessairly mean anything special....but lets hope her example can radiate through our country, and who knows, if they get into office there might be some positive changes in family policy because she puts her family first.
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2 comments:
I agree Tricia, it is not realistic to compare her struggles per say with that of a single mother making 20,000 a year....while she has struggles she also has the financial resources to alleviate all of these struggles As well she has a husband that makes a pretty hefty salary so that helps as well. But
I do think it is interesting that even with her financial stability she still identifies with the fact that having multiple roles as a woman in society is taxing and stressful.
I also agree with your statement: "It's almost a matter of opinion on what people consider putting their family first." At my job so often I see parents who never spend time with their kids and work double shifts regularily so that they can by 200 dollar sneakers, and pay 100 dollar cell bills, and the numerous things that are in style for the average kid. My parents had us by used clothes even though we were well to do and my mom drove a broke down Toyota for 15 years before she got a new car because to her saving money up and preparing for our futures was her way of showing she cared. As well, by saving she could work less and be there for my volleyball games, my school plays, and various other events in my life.
As for Michelle deserving an award or not who knows? I think all parents deserve awards...but I also feel that it would be beneficial to our society for her opinions to be taken into account - hopefully they can steer us towards positive changes for the multirole female.
I think Michelle is doing an excellent job at balancing a full scheduled life. Yes, it might seem easier with lots of money or fame, but there is also a lot of responsibility. I heard someone say that if you really want something, you make time for it, whether it's working out to help you physical features or simply making time for your family. If you want to keep your family together, you do all you can to make that happen. I think by reading this article, it has allowed me to have a complete respect for Michelle Obama. (Not that I didn't respect her before!) I think it takes an incredible woman or person to keep their priorities in line, and they she definitely does just that.
It would be nice if jobs could be more understanding when it comes to famiyl, but I think until we can have our political leaders, or people in the public eye completely agreeing and show that family comes first, it is never going to change.
An award for Michelle....Yeah I think so and for all of those parents who think of their children before themselves.
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