Boundaries

You know, sometimes being a stay at home mom really sucks.  I'm not talking about the social isolation, or the poopy diapers, or the lack of a paycheck.  Those things are bothersome but being at home with my kids is rewarding in other ways and it all works out.  The part that really puts my panties in a bunch is something else - the lack of respect by people that earn a paycheck.

This shows up in a lot of ways, and I'm not going to list all of them here.   One, it would be a more depressing blog than it already is.  Two, I don't have time to type it all out, I have laundry to fold.  But here's the scoop - I am not able to meet/do something for you/jump at your command.  Not for family, not the school, not the church, not doctor's offices, etc.  I have a job.  And while that job doesn't have a paystub, it is still a job.  A job that I take seriously.  You wouldn't expect me to drop everything and come running if I earned a wage.  What's the difference?

You should probably know something about me:  I am really good at setting boundaries.  I've had a lot of practice.  Furthermore I'm stubborn as hell.  If you demand from me, I will sit quietly and look at you like you've grown a third eye.  No arguments, no fuss.  I will tell you that won't work for me, and give you no excuses.  No is a one word sentence.  I know this for a fact - I have a two year old. 

Just be respectful of your fellow humans.  Trust that they are doing good for humanity, as much as you are and maybe a bit more.  Realize that their needs, time, and self-respect are important.

And use your manners, Mama said.