I was a career woman, a seafarer and a breadwinner. I used to finance my family (not at all times) but giving them allowance every month was a big help.
I spent 8 months onboard, and whenever I get back home, I have pasalubong for them. I used to travel a lot. Never ending gala.
Until my last contract, I met my husband and got pregnant. Everything has changed. I signed off from my work and went back home carrying a new life in my tummy. No more travel goals.
All of my last income went for my baby’s welfare and it’s all okay. My partner was still onboard that time. After I gave birth, we decided that we will go back onboard together, but… pandemic came and I got pregnant again.
So I have to focus on my pregnancy instead of getting back on track. My mom was also diagnosed of stage 3 cancer. At that time, me and my husband, we have nothing. We’re totally back to zero due to pandemic. No contracts. zero finance. Living and depending on in laws.
Thank God for the government agencies that somehow helped cancer patients, and to our relatives who supported us for my mom’s daily essentials like diapers, medicines, wipes and all. The burden was very heavy, thinking that I was once a career woman, but now that my mom needs financial help, I have nothing to give even a single cent.
The pain was so deep, the burden was killing me softly.
And after few months, my mom passed away.
It was a painful journey of my motherhood. I just gave birth to my second. She didn’t get the chance to see him personally. I was depressed in my mind. I cannot be depressed in front of my two boys and I was breastfeeding that time.
But, you know, even though how heavy the situation is, I need to rise up. Yes, it wasn’t an easy journey giving up my career, in the midst of pandemic, in the midst of my dying mom, but life will still go on.
My new life as a housewife and a momboy of two is very rewarding. I tried seeking for a new career but it keeps me pulling back to my todds. My hub is back onboard and my toddlers are left with me.
Some moms do not personally chose to be a housewife but the situation required so. So please, don’t underestimate your motherhood whether you’re a career mom or not – two different things with a common denominator. Love your status.