The other part of my hesitation has more to do with my recent switch from "banker" to "housewife." Or, from "cool professional with a future" to "lame apron-wearing drone." Yes, I suppose that I do more in a day than just cooking and cleaning, like writing and launching an online boutique. But leaving "traditional" work behind leaves me feeling a little inadequate, especially under the hyper-pressure of a ten-year reunion.
A quote I read yesterday in a book on work reads: "Being serious about one's work is supposed to mean a full-time, indeed an extended time, commitment: every day, every week, for a lifetime. This is what is traditionally meant by having a "career." Anything less and work becomes just a job..." This quote illustrates the reason for my discomfort. I am serious about my work as an entrepreneur--a writer--but not in a 9-5 way. And because I've chosen to place a higher priority on running my home, I feel less valuable to society in general.
Thinking of the reunion night, I imagine myself talking around what I do, tempted to make myself seem more career and business savvy than I really am. I will most likely answer the question "what do you do?" with "I'm launching my own small business as a writer and accessories designer" rather than "I'm enjoying being a housewife," which is at least as true as the first line.
I suppose that my angst highlights an insecurity I have about my current choices. I realize that I might even run into a lot of young women who have made the same choice, and are enjoying it too (although I'd bet most of them have kids, whereas I do not). I'm sure I'll get over it, send in the check, and have a good time. Oh, and I'll definitely have to buy a killer dress first. At least I can be a stylish housewife, no apron in sight.
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