Uncomplicated Us

This morning as I got ready to go to work, a hundred thoughts running in my mind, clearing the house for the painters to do their job, to avoid much lifting and work for my parents, rushing kids to shake the weekend lethargy and get ready for school, asking questions, giving pointers. A quick check of e-mails and messages, to make sure I have not missed something important. 

Chaos. Most days, it is chaos. This is my non running days. I know things are quieter at home when am not around.

The fear of missing something, losing control, leaving behind unfinished work for others to complete, makes most working moms anxious and worried. 

And we strive to balance work and other's life and self.

With 2 weeks to Christmas and the house in a disarray, shopping to be completed, baking, project deadlines, all overwhelming.

I step out of home, later than usual, a hot winter day.  Trying to attract the attention of an auto for my 7 minute ride to work, with my laptop, work out clothes, lunch, snack and several jumbled thoughts weighing me down as well, I ask myself, what do I want. 

I look at passing cars occupied by elegantly coiffured women with their laptops open, luxurious bags, manicured hands around expensive phones in chauffeur driven cars, everything screaming out luxury and wonder what would they want?

Do I want what they have? 

Many years ago, when I had started my working life, my priorities were clear- my wants were materialistic in nature- Computer, Car and House. 

And I went ahead and made them mine.

Today, my needs are different. Am I the only one? 

I reached out to some of my friends and ask them what they want as a woman today.

There were the cheeky 40+ women's answers as well as very understated and simple needs. 

Very few wanted diamonds and materialistic gifts,  most were looking for an enriched soul and wholesome life.

Many moms wanted more family time, some just wanted their grown up teenagers to be babies again. 

Wanted the newly married feeling back in their lives to enjoy the spontaneity with their spouses. 

Not have to hide our wrinkles and age spots and to wear our greys with grace. 

Be respected and accepted by our co-workers and family when we go through our pre-menopausal mood swings! We are kind and strong people, we too have our moments. 

We are ambitious and career oriented, support our late night calls, meetings, work we bring home.

More shared responsibility at home from our kids and spouses. Pick up after yourself.. Even ordering in involves laying the table, washing and cleaning up.

Want our kids to know we are human and have emotions and can have a break down. We yell, yes, because we love more than our heart allows. 

Be supported for our sudden urges to "be different" 

Calm our fears, they are not unfounded.

Hugs, holding hands, quiet time. Gentle massages, Listen when we talk. My time.

Talk! 

The occasional diamonds are accepted.

Is it too much to ask?