**A Note on Me-Time**
The other day, my mate Tom came round for a cuppa. We were sat in the kitchen, chatting about life, when I suddenly said, Ill just pop over and do the washing-upback in a tick.
He looked at me like Id just announced I was building a rocket. With a mix of awe and confusion, he said, Fair play, mate, helping your wife out like that. I dont bothermine never thanks me anyway. Last week, I mopped the floor, and not so much as a cheers.
I sat back down and explained that I wasnt *helping* my wife, Emily. In fact, she doesnt *need* my helpshe needs a partner. Im not lending a hand with the chores; Im just doing my share because I live here too.
I dont help with the cleaningbecause if I dont clean, Im living in filth.
I dont help with the cookingbecause if I dont cook, I dont eat.
I dont help with the dishesbecause those plates dont wash themselves, and I use them too.
I dont help with the kidsbecause theyre *my* children, and being their dad is my job.
I dont help with the laundrybecause those socks arent magically folding themselves, and half of them are mine.
Im not a *helper* in my own home. I *live* here. This is my house too.
Then I asked Tom: *When was the last time you thanked your wife for doing the washing, the hoovering, changing the beds, bathing the kids, cooking dinner, or tidying up?* Not just a quick ta, but a proper, Bloody hell, love, youre amazing!
Bit awkward, isnt it? Funny how when *you* finally mop the floor once in a blue moon, you expect a standing ovation but when *she* does it every day, its just expected.
Maybe its because our bloke-ish culture teaches us that all this is *her* job. Maybe you think it all just *happens* by magic.
Well, heres a thought: praise her like you expect to be praised. Step up. Be a proper partner, not just a lodger who shows up for meals, showers, and *other* needs.
This is *your* house too. Act like it.
Real change starts at home. Lets teach our sons and daughters what it means to be a true partner.
