Work-Life Balance by Naomi Elana Zener

Whomever coined the term "work-life balance" for moms should be shot,
For any mother trying to achieve it knows she cannot.
In the truest sense of these magical words,
It means both working and parenting full-time, which is absurd.
Perhaps it is accomplished if one holds employment part-time,
Spending more time with the kiddies is easier and sublime.
Yet if a career is the goal, not simply holding a job,
Better learn to burn the candle at both ends moms, as you quietly sob.
Some vocational fields are "softer" to which women are herded,
More amenable to parenthood, but around feminists dare not be blurted.
Women today are expected to do it all,
While wearing stilettos and not dropping the ball.
Law, medicine, finance, or running a business, to mommies are unforgiving,
For these A+ driven women at everything are used to winning.
Juggling the weighty balls of getting it all done perfectly,
Results in their being dropped and shattering quite frequently.
Disappointment running rampant pouring in from every side,
Need more hours at work! Unsexed hubbies! Neglected kiddies! Mommies run and hide!
Lavish trips, great gifts, consolation prizes bought with that great bonus,
A mea culpa for mommy's absence, which she hopes they don't notice.
Reminding the family that nanny is not mother and wife,
Unhappy with the mess she has made of her life.
Cracked under pressure, women launch into tirades laced with profanity,
Enriching "swear jars" at home, being driven to the point of insanity.
Spontaneous combustion imminently to occur,
"Something's got to give!" she screams " I can no longer be her!!"
Finding even ground before she falls over the cliff,
For excelling at career and family, is but a myth.
Putting family first she must, it's the inevitable decision,
Second place career, hoping not to look upon herself with derision.
As the saying goes, so tired but true,
Being a woman is tough, just do the best you can do.

© 2019. Naomi Elana Zener. All Rights Reserved.