Why I Love Being a Woman

Today I read a letter that my awesome nephew,we'll call him Aman (pronounced uh-man), had sent to his brother who is on a mission. In this letter Aman talks about how lucky he feels to be "a man"...now prepare yourselves because he says some pretty crazy stuff, but also, take comfort because I know Aman, and I know how glorious he believes women are and also that he is Sweets' and my biggest fan (in other words he Knows what we have is pretty dang awesome). Quote:

"On almost all levels I count myself lucky to be a man. The female gender just seems to have so many drawbacks; giving birth, raising kids, insane emotional swings, a life void of reason, women are always held on a different standard, and women have to put up with a lot of douche bag guys..."

Now, I actually HAVE put up with some douche bags in my time and every month I DO experience some pretty crazy thoughts that nearly put me over the edge, and women ARE and SHOULD be held on a different standard. As Julie Beck, the Relief Society general President reminded us, "Women have distinct assignments given to them from before the foundation of the world." Wow!

So, I assume that Aman is exaggerating on how he sees things, but maybe not entirely. I feel like I may have been a contributor in some of the negativity and here is why:

I remember just last year when we were at a family party and Aman and I were talking and he asked me how I was doing and what I was up to. I don't remember my exact words but the basic jist of it certainly would have put negatives types of ideas in his head. The sad thing is, is that as I said them I felt a guilty twinge in my heart because I knew they were not true. I had suggested that maybe my kids were driving me crazy and that I questioned my reason for living. Not like I wanted to be dead or anything like that, more like "really? THIS is what I get to do for the rest of my life!?" but only in a kidding, rolling my eyes, sort of way. I think I have gotten better on thinking before speaking since this experience.

I am pretty sure that I have felt like many stay-at-home moms have felt at times. And that is maybe just being a little overwhelmed at times with the responsibilities that go with such a calling. However, one should never joke about the blessings that have been laid before them.

My life IS a blessing and I truly know this. I have been blessed with four of the healthiest, happiest, funnest, and most creative kids that make me laugh and cry all day. I GET to stay home with them and this is an awesome blessing. My husband is my most favorite person in the world; I love him more and more all the time and everyday I bask in that warm thought "This is my eternal companion." He worships me and everyday I try to be worthy of his love for me. He tells me continously how much I mean to him and he melts my heart when he says to me "You know... you ARE a veritable queen." I wouldn't trade this life for anything and I thank God everyday that it's all mine...the craziness, the cooking and cleaning, the running kids around, the LOVE! I know the Spirit abides in our home and I know, without a doubt, that my Father is pleased with my efforts. And, I am grateful to Him for this opportunity.