The Plaint of a Homemaker

Two years back, I was a working woman. As a working woman, I have always felt challenged to complete all the household work and rush to one’s work place where commitments are lined up. Sometimes these responsibilities to meet the deadlines can drive one crazy. These could be duties in workplace or even at the home. There was a one point in time when I used to feel – ‘how easy it would be for a homemaker, no hurry-burry, no time constraints – such a relaxed life!’ I remember my friends were envious of me going to work. They would say that my job was a lot better than being a homemaker like them. Well! Isn’t the grass greener on the other side? They often used to say, “You get to see the outside world, and a chance to dress up and be fresh always!” This would leave me perplexed.

Be that as it may, the pandemic showed me the other side of the grass when I took a break from my work. I finally agree that being a stay-at-home woman is not as easy as I thought it would be. When I first started, I felt relaxed and happy. But as the days went by, I felt increasingly tired. I was doing the routine work and this seemed to be a burden. My mind was filled up with so many thoughts- with thoughts about the day, right from the aromatic coffee till the delicious dinner. In addition to these, planning for the next day’s routine, cleaning of the utensils, mopping the floor, the laundry work, getting the household requirements, remembering the household works and so on. I must say, the list was a whopping one or at least that’s the way I felt. It made my day hectic and drove me crazy. That wasn’t the scenario when I was in the workplace. How was I able to handle all that when I went to work?

So, I made the decision to do freelance work instead of just being a homemaker. Oh my God! Was that an easy thing? Too many things in mind, too many responsibilities, too many commitments and sacrifices, all without earning any money. To add to the picture the option of working from home had created havoc in the lives of every homemaker. The never ending demand for variety in food, the messed up house and change of routine..! Albeit all this, I’m sure the homemaker did feel happy that their loved ones were with them 24/7. But unquestionably, the pressure and workload for every homemaker had doubled! The word ‘house wife’ has been upgraded to ‘homemaker’. But did the women actually get the promotion that was rightfully hers?

It is rightly said that the role of the homemaker is a challenging one and deserves much appreciation but unfortunately it is the least appreciated. They deserve a much higher compensation than any of us, given that they are versatile. Taunting with sentences like, ‘what do you do the whole day?’ makes their day seem even worse. Instead can we not support them saying, “all these household chores would be impossible without you!’. Just try these lines and you will notice a brightness on their faces. In fact you would be imparting them the energy to carry on with their daily responsibilities. Help them in small ways and I am sure they would feel that you understand them. A small appreciation will bring a lot of cheer in their life. Can we try to be appreciative and also be supportive towards their works and decisions?

I really miss the golden period of my life: being active and energetic, completing the household works and rushing to the workplace with colorful lipstick shades and a good charming smile. (Although these days colorful masks have taken over the shades of lipsticks!) Hopefully those good old days will soon be back for everybody and life would be normal and peaceful. Till then, open your eyes and see the dedication and the work done by the homemakers… the plaints of a homemaker. Appreciate their efforts and help them be energetic and active always. Hope you all agree!