Avelyn, unbeknownst to me, snapped this photo one day, of my working from our home office (aka: my chronically unmade bed), talking to a client. 

If you were raised in the church you have probably heard quotes from Proverbs 31, noting the characteristics of a wife of noble character. I grew up hearing how “charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised” but never really bothered to read the rest of the chapter.

When I did, I was actually kind of shocked.

“She gets up while it it still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants. She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. She sees that her trading is profitable and her lamp does not go out at night.”

-Proverbs 31: 16-18

This Proverbs 31 woman? She WORKS HER ASS OFF.

I am still grappling with my search for work-life balance and trying to find my way after somehow thinking that the highest and best path for me would be to stay at home with my kids, then suddenly changing direction and pursuing a career. I still have so many questions about what is best for me, my marriage, our family.

But I am learning that it’s OK to work. To find pieces of my identity in my career. To set goals and reach them. To fail and be humbled and learn.

The season I was a stay-at-home mom was one of the hardest of my life, so to the women and friends I know who choose that path, you have my admiration and respect.

We are all in this together.