Politics?

Politics and I have little to discuss. I grew up in a houseful of democrats and one republican, so whenever a political debate would arise, I would leave the room. Perhaps, if I had stuck around I would be less ignorant about the subject and less nervous when asked to discuss the subject in public. Perhaps if I had stuck around, I would be more bitter about the subject as well.

It truly amazes me how fired up people can get when it comes to the topic of politics - especially the personal side of politics. Everything from clothes to parenting choices can ignite an explosive controversy. I suppose I can understand the idea of the clothing making a statement but quite frankly, as long as we don't have to endure any wardrobe malfunctions, those ladies can wear whatever they feel good in to the inaugural ball. Aren't we supposed to be socially mature enough to not judge people by the clothes they wear? As for parenting decisions, again who are we to judge?

In our book we revealed survey results which clearly demonstrate all moms experience guilt associated with being a parent - ALL MOMS - stay at home moms, working out of the home moms, working from home moms, ALL MOMS. As Devra loves to say, "The grass is neither greener nor more brown on the other side of the fence, so let's take down the fence and practice good lawn care for all of us, together." So why the hoopla over Michelle Obama's decision to make her girls her top priority right now? Why are so many people horrified by Michelle stating publicly that it is more important for her to be a mom now than a lawyer? I am proud of Michelle for stepping up and letting everyone know her decision loud and clear. In my eyes, she is not taking a step back for women, she is leaping forward by representing a generation of hard working, successful women who are not ashamed to say they are moms. She is not saying she is no longer a lawyer. She is not saying she is lowering her personal or professional standards to take care of her children. She is simply adjusting her priorities to meet the current needs of herself and her family. What's wrong with that?

Let's look at the other side for a moment. Imagine Michelle announced she would move to DC, continue to work full time, bring in a nanny, instead of Grammy, and she was sure the staff and secret service would do a wonderful job of transitioning her girls to their new school and new life style. I'm fairly certain a statement like this would have resulted in just as much controversy. However, I would again ask, "Who are we to judge?" We do not live with the Obama family (although we have certainly invaded their lives). We don't know if that decision would have been the right one for them or not. Parents have an enormous responsibility in raising children and we must empower all parents to do this without dumping our own opinions on every choice they make, no matter how public their lives are.

Instead of ridiculing, let's remember Devra's words on lawn care and pull together to work with a woman in very public light to help the grass grow. Michelle and Barack may help serve us as constant gardeners along the way by enriching our soil with family sick leave, early childhood education, access to health care, and many other issues.

Michelle and Barack, I wish you all the luck in the world as you move into the white house with the love of 2 young children and Grandma by your side to support you both along the way. Look out Washington, this is bound to be an adventure like nothing you have ever seen before.