Blog # 8

"The Opt-Out Revolution" by Lisa Belkin

This 'revolution' of women fleeing their successful jobs to be stay-at-home mom's was and still is a very controversial issue among feminists and moms alike. There are many sides of this argument that set women apart once again. One side of the argument is that many of these women that have left the work room did not leave entirely. Many of these women either work part time or are self-employed from home. Belkin herself left the New York Times newsroom, giving up the chance for a top editorial slot, to work as a home-based writer. So what does that say?
Another side of this article is that it is very alarming and has a great deal to say about how far feminism has really come... or not come. It is quite strange that so many women have gone to the best schools in America and continued onto the most successful jobs, then just leave it all. Yes, it's understandable that one could get more fulfillment out of having a family and not stressing yourself out because of a job. But still, what will that mean once all the children are grown-up and out of the house?
I've experienced this trend firsthand as I grew up and watched my mother. She, however, chose an opposite path. After my parents got divorced when I was younger, my mother took the role as a single working parent of two kids. She is highly successful, as a state coordinator in her job, put herself through college to get her Masters' degree, and still made time to make us dinner when I lived at home. She has told me that things can be very hard and demanding... trying to make PTA conferences and still drive to Oklahoma City for corporate meetings. She has told me, however, that she doesn't regret any of her decisions though!