#Homemaking
The thing about “unpaid labour” like taking care of a sick family member, managing the home or full time child care is that the person doing it is also typically unable to simultaneously hold down another full time job – or are doing the equivalent of 2 jobs (care work and their regular job)
I don’t think this consideration factors into the conversation often enough when their contributions are weighed
It’s why a SHM spouse, parent or caregiver deserves to be fairly treated – they are doing a full job without an income from that job, and have either lost the ability to earn while working this job, or are doing 2 jobs with only one income
Given that the responsibilities they take on are often quite costly if paid for at market rate, care work is an immense contribution to the household and I am always baffled by the people who can’t see it
“Is it not just…”
Do it then, if it’s so easy. At the very least, split the work equally so they are less strained and can consider the prospect of employment in their freed up time. Or split the income that comes in to the household to cover them too. Because humans being selfish – the the person that enables them to work and earn without worry – baffles me to no end
Same selfishness shows up when people cheat – believing they are entitled to “more” or “better” but not being willing to give up what they already have so their partners can also have that choice/ option
I’m not dragging cheaters today though. I’d let POP do it
But those of you that like eating your cake and having it; allowing one partner/sibling carry all the brunt of care and/or domestic work and then shaming them for not having an income (or refusing to share yours given that they make your life easier), I am watching you with narrowed eyes
❤️&💡
~Jane