I had no idea what I wrote yesterday would be so controversial. I'd like to start by saying that I haven't written in a while for fear of coming across as narcissistic. Of course if I am not just writing delightful little stories of myself and my life, there is always the chance I could offend someone.
I have been overwhelmed with responses, and I think my "writer's voice" came across as angry or confrontational. Please believe me when I say that I did not intend to express that I think one way of life is better than another and my life, the decisions I have made, and my purpose is perfect. No, no, no. I would compare who I am today to a gymnast falling at the the end of her routine, and somehow making it look as though it was on purpose....and I like to think, with grace.
I guess I was only trying to express my gratitude to a friend who opened my eyes to the thought that what I have is really special, and to some people even enviable. I feel extremely blessed and thankful everyday. Don't let me fool you. There are days that there are five loads of laundry to fold, toilets to be scrubbed, dishes to be put away, babies who won't stop crying, defiant toddlers, and an undeserving husband who gets lashed out on.
I understand that is not everyone's ultimate goal. I was sharing my frustration with criticism that some people have expressed towards me, with or without their words.
I feel terrible to think that I may have hurt someone's feelings or rubbed someone the wrong way. I may change my mind by tomorrow, but for now I think I am going to temporarily hang up my blogging cap. Thank you all for the support and feedback as I shed light on my own POV.
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Anna--your tone and the things you said in your last post were spot-on. I'm actually kind of shocked to hear that anyone took issue with it.
ReplyDeleteJust so you know, I found your post to be extremely comforting and relatable. I was so glad to hear that I wasn't alone. I also receive similar criticisms (often of the passive aggressive variety) for choosing to live the life I am living. I work from home but I don't get paid for what I do (yet) and, since I don't have kids and am financially just a housewife, that somehow makes all the hours I put in less valid than someone who brings home a paycheck. It's a sort of reverse feminism that breaks down women who have chosen or found happiness in anything even vaguely resembling traditional female roles. It's not right. Everybody needs to follow their own path and no one person's course is more right than another's.
I hope you decide to keep writing. Yours is one of my favorite blogs to read, and it's not just because I know you. You're witty and sharp and insightful. Don't let anyone take that from you.
Britt is right when she says, "it's a reverse feminism". I've seen other blogger's attacked when they talk about being happy to stay at home. You didn't do anything wrong, you are writing how you feel, and most SAHM's feel the same way. I would venture to guess the people that were offended, work outside the home! You did not say in your post that moms who work outside the home are wrong for choosing that path. You were just saying that staying at home works for your family and you find it rewarding. If someone finds that offensive they have other issues, it's not you.
ReplyDeleteKeep writing, you're always going to have haters, you can't please everyone...but you always bring a smile to my face!! :)