I was watching a clip today about a couple that cooks their meals together and how they have embraced a different way of thinking around such a sphere and it got me thinking to the position women find themselves in this modern day.
It has become quite common for many homes to embrace and plan for both the husband and wifes’ income. Both are considered quite vital for the success of the home and it is common to hear phrases such as “Men want someone who is working” when we are dating. The notion that a man will be the only one to provide financially while the wife stays home and takes care of the home has become a thing of the past. Many women want to have their own sense of independence and accomplishment in business and career.
What does that mean for women though? Unfortunately, while the financial aspect may have evolved, matters in the household usually have not and it isn’t uncommon to find the financial embrace in the marriage coupled with the household separation. By household separation, i mean the belief that home affairs will be taken care of by the woman that is, cooking, cleaning, child rearing and general groceries and shopping. In essence, the modern world has more work for women; the career woman, the wife, the homemaker and the mother. All of which are very important but when done simultaneously, lead to burn out, self neglect or sacrifice of particular aspects.
I wonder what this creates in terms of expectation of life for daughters of these women. What this means for children who may feel a sense of neglect even though both parents were “there” and women who may feel overwhelmed in an unsympathetic world. What does this mean for marriages of women who refuse to carry the burden alone? What does this mean for boys being brought up in this setting? What would it take to de-program mindsets that somehow women are better home-makers just by virtue of their gender? Why would something as essential for survival as eating and hence cooking not be a priority for all people? Will we be surprised when women no longer desire marriage or will an equilibrium be reached before then?
Megs' 