That's true - but they are not the same time.
Sarah Ban Breathnach writes in her book of Simple Abundance that:
" You cannot raise happy, secure, emotionally well adjusted children, revel in a fabulous marriage and work a sixty-hour week. You want to, I know. So do I. But we can't. It is physically, emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually impossible. We have tried. We have failed."
To have someone else say this gives me great comfort. As women, we often feel like we need to do it all. (And do it all perfectly.)
Recently as Jody and I looked at our financial budget, we realized I need some sort of part-time work in order to offset what we will call 'My Fabulous Annual Colonoscopy Fund.' Medical bills call, and so I call the news director at KUTV where I have reported as a freelancer since 2009. Since Sienna joined our family - I haven't worked at 2News as often for a few reasons: Sienna has had some serious anxiety & mommy attachment issues, and it has been difficult to leave her (at all). And mostly - Goodness! Having two kids is way harder than one. I have wanted and needed to be at home.
But I need consistent work, and so I talk to the news director and express my interest in working more regularly. She tells me if I want to work at 2News more than the occasional freelance fill-in, I should apply for their new position. It's a full-time position, and my heart drops. My hopes sink because I don't want to work full-time. I don't want someone else raising my children.
I have already had this conversation with the Lord. He knows me personally, just as He knows you.
And so I don't even apply.
Within a week, a new opportunity presents itself. I am offered a position at the local high school co-teaching their Television Broadcasting Classes. It's part-time. It's good pay. And it's something where I feel I can make a difference in the lives of others. Teaching has been on my Bucket List...and now I get to do it!
I have a new realization for recognizing the difference between Worldly Success and Authentic Success. Both types of success can pay the bills - so to speak. But only Authentic Success happens when we listen to our hearts.
And Yes, there is a time for everything! Perhaps down the road - I will be chasing headlines and reporting for CNN. The dream doesn't have to die simply because the time is not right. However, for me right now, it's a time to try and master the art of getting more puréed carrots in my baby's mouth - verses on her face.
And it's my time to hold my baby and take in that sweet smell after her bath.
Children are going to be small for a very short period of time. The Lord has provided a working opportunity for me, and I am so grateful.
But this is my season to wipe a runny nose, play hide n'seek and rock a crying baby.
