A desperately passionate housewife

I am a passionate housewife. I am passionate about the people that I love under this roof, and the lives that will be touched by my ministry here.

There is not a moment that goes by that I am not aware of my job. I do not take vacations from it, because it is a part of who I am. It is part of me when I dream at night and among the first thoughts when I wake in the morning.

Taking care of people does not drain me; it feeds me. I was created to serve, and it is in service that I find life. I love cleaning dishes, floors and toilets because it blesses those around me. I get giddy over a full pantry and the smell of home-made bread in the oven. I want my windows to sparkle and my garden to flourish, for the glory of God and the benefit of others.

Don't tell me that I am an anachronism, because I live in the "now". Don't accuse me of being unbalanced or mentally ill; I've tried selfishness and wanted to die. It is when we get focussed on our own needs that we become despondent. The way out of depression is through the love of God, expressed through loving others.

When someone is sad, I comfort. When they are down, I cheer. When they are happy, I rejoice. I listen when they talk, and I advise when they ask. But I do not need to puff myself up by trying to meet every need; I encourage others to serve to their greatest capacity and get out of the way as they do.

I don't work for money, and I don't need silly things like jewels and awards. My rewards are hugs, kisses and giggles. Making people feel loved is my stock in trade. Even when I have nothing, I can give of myself. A kind word can be worth more than gold to one who is in pain or despair.

If I pass and people forget my name and my face, but they remember to bless God and love each other because of my work, I will have been successful. If no one ever sees me or acknowledges my work, God sees, and He is my greatest reward. When I enter heaven, He will be enough for me, my joy and my life forever.

The idea for this post was something I read at Stacy McDonald's site, Your Sacred Calling. She is putting out a new book soon, "Passionate Housewives Desperate for God"--I can't wait to read it.