For many years I have been asked what ‘work’ I am going to
do. I have fallen into many jobs over the years that have worked with the stage
of life our family was in, but none that I really seeked out or desired. While
this has been a blessing, I have often felt I was waiting for my ‘calling’, the
work that would bring me joy and satisfaction. For some reason I had felt this
had to be a work I was paid to do, that is wasn’t a real job unless someone
paid me to do it. However, I have since realized that I am doing the work that
brings me joy and satisfaction. I am being the mother to my three daughters and
being a part of the community that surrounds us. I work at building
relationships and supporting those who need it. With more people working but
not having family support at hand they need people like me who are available to
help them when needed. The other day a friend’s nanny forgot to pick up her
children from the station and they had no way of contacting their mother but
they knew we were home so they come to us. I want our house to be a refuge,
where people know that they are welcome and will be cared for. They say it
takes a village to raise a children and I guess I have found my place in the
village. I don’t need to be the one hunting and gathering. I earn my way by
looking after others so that they can hunt and gather and know that their
children are well looked after and loved and that they will have a listening
ear when they need it too.
It has taken me many years to come to peace with what my 'gainful employment' is. According to Wikipedia, 'gainful employment refers to an employment situation where the employee receives consistent work and payment from the employer.' I have consistent work and while I may not be paid in cold hard cash, I receive a lot in return. My heart can burst with love for my three incredible daughters. All so different, yet all amazing. I get to work to my strengths of kindness and hospitality. I watch people grow and have them help me grow too as I spend time with them. There is time to foster new relationships within our community and connect people together. I definitely see the gains from my employment.
