Armstrong was singing away about how much the home fire means to him. Even the things that are less than desirable all worked together to be his little heaven on earth. He was so happy there that he invited others in to share it with him. In that moment I knew that the work of keeping the home fire burning is a good one.
I don't do it perfectly. I've been at it for so long that I do a lot of the work without even thinking about it. I need to get better at going with the flow. I need to be able to plan ahead in a way that leaves room for a handful of friends to stop by and join in on whatever it is we're eating or doing. My Mom was always so good at making room for my friends and I know that I've done a terrible job at welcoming people in. If I've had time to plan, I'm game, but it's the unplanned that keeps me
Homemaking hasn't been very popular for a LONG time. People look down on it or feel like it's looked down on. I'm so pleased that it's making a come back. Women are getting excited about cooking and cleaning and gardening and spending the majority of their time tending to the ones they love. It is a full time job and one that's worthy of our praise and devotion.
God gave us these homes to be little churches in our neighborhoods. As we welcome people into our everyday lives, it's our opportunity to share our relationship with each other and with Him. The need to sleep and rest and eat and work are gifts from God to give us ways to connect to one another.
I may not be a mother or a wife, but I've been given a home fire to tend to and it is one of my greatest joys. I know that my family appreciates it. I know I have so very much to learn. I'm thankful for the reminders - however unexpected they may be - that this life I've been given is a good one. It's easy to turn my eyes to other things. I can truly say that I'm proud of my work and content to continue in it as long as I can.
Whatever we do, people will always have something to say about it. We'll always think there's something "better" or "more important" that we could be doing. This weekend, take some time to think about the work God has given you. Thank Him for it. Ask Him to help you to be glad in it. And, whether you're the keeper of the home fire or not, celebrate the gift that it is!
As for me, I sit here having the furniture dusted, the kitchen tidied, a loaf of this bread baking away in the oven, and the rain coming down outside. I've got Louis providing the soundtrack. And now, I'm off to get some laundry going.
If you're ever in town, inquire. We'll be glad to have you share the home fire!
Keep pressing on. Don't grow weary in well doing. You have an important job in your family and home. Some people have the gift of hospitality. It's in their blood. Sadly, I'm not one of those people for whatever reason. I'm like you in that I'd love to be more hospitable. But those that have the gift? They are amazing at it! Tell your mom I need lessons!
ReplyDeleteI really love this post Victoria!! I am loving being a homemaker right now and I am taking so much pride in it after sitting in cubicles for months at different places and feeling completely worthless. I feel like I'm a better person when I'm taking care of my home and family.
ReplyDeleteI love this post. I am weary of the feminist narrative that makes homemakers feel put upon. If we really care about women why don't we encourage the women who desire to stay at home for their husband and kids as much as we encourage the women on a 'career path'? Both paths are admirable and necessary.
ReplyDeleteBy the way, I am with you on needing to grow in flexibility so I can welcome people more easily. Or maybe I just need to mop more consistently so I always feel ready :)
My all-time favorite line, possibly of all blogs of all time: "God gave us these homes to be little churches in our neighborhoods." I'm challenged by your insights and ready to tackle being a light i our neighborhood (starting with a big blanket apology to everyone nearby that we have such a barky dog haha). Also there is such beauty and rest in doing yard work, taking the time to REALLY cook, and reading. I love this and I love you. :)
ReplyDeleteOh my gosh, this is my favorite thing I've read in a LONG time. Homemaking is seriously a passion of mine. I don't care how old-fashioned it is, it's important work. This just brings me so much joy. I want to hug you. What you're doing is amazing and important and needed.
ReplyDeleteI LOVE this. I think it's so important to keep a cozy, warm, and safe home, for your family and for whomever may stop by! You're doing a great job, and I needed this inspiration!
ReplyDelete