On the Importance of Me-Time: A Personal Reflection

**A Note on Me-Time**

Recently, a friend popped over for coffee, and as we sat chatting about life, I mentioned, Ill just go and do the washing-upback in a sec.

He looked at me as if Id said I was building a spaceship. With a mix of admiration and bewilderment, he replied, Its nice you help your wife. I dont bothermine never thanks me anyway. Last week, I mopped the floor, and not even a cheers for it.

I sat back down and explained that I wasnt helping my wife. In fact, she doesnt *need* helpshe needs a partner. I *am* that partner in running the household, not some occasional helper pitching in.

I dont help my wife clean because I live here too, and cleaning is just something that needs doing.
I dont help her cook because I also want to eat, so cooking is just as much my job.
I dont help with the washing-up because those plates are just as much mine as hers.
I dont help with the kids because theyre *my* children too, and being their dad is my role.
I dont help with the laundry because those clothes belong to me and our kids just as much as to her.
I dont help at home. I *live* here. This is my house too.

As for praise, I asked my friend: *When was the last time your wife scrubbed the floors, did the laundry, changed the beds, bathed the kids, cooked dinner, tidied upand you turned to her and said, Thanks?* And not just a quick tabut full appreciation: *Bloody hell, youre amazing!*

Does that sound odd? Are you staring at the table now, realising how odd it is? You mop *once*, and you expect a medal but why? Have you ever thought about that, mate?

Maybe because our bloke-ish culture taught you that all this is *her* job.
Maybe you think it all just magically happens, no effort required?

Well then, praise *her* the way you want to be praisedwith the same energy. Step up. Be a proper partner, not just a guest who shows up to eat, sleep, shower, and get laid. *Feel* at home. This is your house too.

Real change starts at home. Lets teach our sons and daughters what it means to be a true partner.