I just started my current classes last week at Ashford University. On your first day, you are required to post an introduction about yourself. My introduction is much like the one that I have posted here at elearners.com. My introduction in my classes talked about how I am a stay at home mother and also how I am doubling up on classes. Usually, the responses from my classmates are very positive. I had one individual though, that said something that just kind of hit a nerve. Here is a quote that she said in her post which I am referring to:
"Wow Vanessa double classes, that seems like a heavy load! I was thinking about doubling classes, but with me working a full time job and then having to running my family I have my hands quite full. You are lucky you have the luxury to do that."
Now, I know that I am very lucky to be able to stay home with my children right now while they are young, there is no doubt about that. But for anybody that is a stay at home parent, especially to little ones, they know that we also have a full time job as well. My "job" is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. I do not get days off. I do not get sick days or paid vacations, and I definitely do not get paid by the hour or salary. I decided for myself to continue on with my education because I wanted to set a good example for my children and be able to help them have the future that I never had.
I think what bugged me about what this lady had wrote was the fact that 1. she didn't think that I have a full time job as well and I do raise my family, and 2. that she didn't think she could do it as well. I am a firm believer that life is about choices. If you want somethig bad enough, you will find a way to do it. Because I want my degree that bad, I stay up way past midnight because that is my quiet time to work on homework, I don't go out much, and I live off coffee. All the while taking care if my children and husband.
So, before you judge somebody for their occupation, or lack thereof, make sure you know all the details. And remember, the grass is not always greener on the other side.