Doing What Needs to Be Done

Kate and John
Our plan was uncomplicated plan as we bumbled through raising our children, trying to give them a safe place to grow, the necessities, and a few of the things they wanted, hoping they’d become strong, independent, contributing adults. Because we both struggled to get through college on our own, we wanted to make that path easier. There were no gender-specific expectations. Both learned to cook, clean, sew on a button, mow, and fix a flat.
Nowadays, I am often surprised to hear themtelling the things they are grateful for. My daughter says she’s never been intimidated by men, freely speaking her mind, and doing what needs to be done at home and professionally. My son is a kind, sensitive man who treats his wife like a queen, putting her needs on an equal par with his. Both work hard to do the right thing.
The only thing I’d do differently if I were raising kids today, is place less importance on college, putting a road block in the path of those who’d prefer a technical, or blue-collar job. So many get out of college with a mountain of debt today, when they’d have already been several years into a career as a hairdresser, electrician, plumber, woodworker, or some other honorable job. We need to support children who are showing interest in a trade or skilled job instead of directing the masses toward college and debt.

30 thoughts on “Doing What Needs to Be Done”

  2. I think that’s really true, Linda. I had a cousin who didn’t do well in regular studies but was great with mechanics. He began working on the big rigs and made a good living from it. As far as I know, he was never out of work. I read once that more people were needed who knew how to repair things rather than just working on them. :) — Suzanne

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  4. I’m glad your kids turned out so well. I agree with your point about jobs, incidentally. Anyone attempting to make an honest living deserves respect, whether their chosen path involves college (and debt!) or not.

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  10. I totally agree with you! I especially cringe when young adult feel forced to make a decision about a career at a time when they are almost always ill equipped-no experience to draw upon-It was a beautiful post and it does not sound like your skill was lacking-look how they turned out!

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  12. dave lewis's avatar dave lewis says:

    I tell young people at the YMCA to be denturists or funeral directors because sooner or later everyone is gonna need your service. I was an electronic technician in a steel mill and loved my job.

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