I think My Mom Would have Been Proud

Submitted by Susan Sarate

Susan's mom, dad, and cousin's daughter

"I love my career in healthcare administration and truly believe that it makes me a better mom."

As a wife and mother to two kids, I've always wanted the best for my family. I was raised by a strong mother and great father and feel so thankful that I grew up in a happy home. My mom, who raised me back in the 70s, convinced me that when a mom worked the kids lost out and the mother would eventually be filled with regret. I believed her. Why wouldn't I? She was a great mother and full of fun. She made our lives fun. The thing is, back in 2006, just as my own family was taking shape, she died. She didn't live long enough to answer my questions, understand my family dynamics, or witness the changes that have occurred over the last ten years. 

Five years ago I went back to work. We needed health care benefits, and I knew it was the right thing for our family. It was right for our kids, it was right for my husband, and it was right for me. Still, I've been feeling guilty about it. The crazy thing is, the guilt doesn't stem from being "less than" for my kids and husband, it comes from being raised by a stay-at-home mom who wasn't shy about her feelings. I get that her thinking was a product of her generation, but I still felt tremendous pressure to stay home.

Since returning to work, I've come to realize that it really is "right" for me to work. It's made me realize that I was a little bored before. I love my career in healthcare administration and truly believe that it makes me a better Mom.

Ironically, I really think my mom would be so proud of the career I've built, along with my thriving family.

Susan Sarate is a mother, wife and healthcare administrator. She earned a business degree from Ferris State University.

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