When I was new bride and decided to be a keeper-at-home, I felt like I needed to defend my decision all the time. I was quite happy and content making a warm and cozy home, trying out new recipes, growing a garden, and helping care for my parents. But my friends, neighbors and even church questioned this decision and said I should be making money and building a career. Now though, as an older homeschool mom I feel so proud of my descision and very confident that caring for my husband, home, and children is a high calling and a wonderful career choice.

My dear husband and I will celebrate our 28th anniversary this year!! Our children are happy and we have a wonderful home life together. How could our culture actually believe that leaving our homes and working for a company is more important and valuable than devoting a life to the people you love the most ? Why do they value prestige and money over family and marriage? This poem reminds me of the girl I used to be.  If you feel as I do, I think you will enjoy reading this poem.  Blessings,  Anne

She came tonight as I sat alone

The girl I used to be.

And she gazed at me with her earnest eye
And questioned reproachfully:

Have you forgotten the many plans
And hopes I had for you?

The great career, the splendid fame,
all the wonderful things to do?

Where is the mansion of stately height
With all its gardens rare?

The silken robes that I dreamed for you
And the jewels in your hair?

And as she spoke, I was very sad                         
For I wanted her pleased with me…

This slender girl from the shadowy past

The girl that I used to be.

So gently rising, I took her hand
And guided her up the stairs

Where peacefully sleeping, my babies lay
Innocent, sweet, and fair.

And I told her that these are my only gems,
And precious they are to me;

That silken robes is my motherhood
Of costly simplicity.

And my mansion of stately height is love,
And the only career I know

Is serving each day in these sheltered walls
For the dear ones who come and go

And as I spoke to my shadowy guest,           
She smiled through her tears at me.

And I saw the woman that I am now
Pleased

the girl I used to be.

~~ Author Unknown ~~