Men and Housekeeping

Picture belongs to blackeiffel.blogspot.com

It's a real shame that good house keeping techniques aren't encouraged in young men beyond the "man cave" and the garage. Just a few days ago, my mother was telling me about home economics classes that were required of high school girls in the 1940s and 50s. However, this is especially pertinent now that people are getting married later and that divorce rates are up. More and more people are single and living by themselves.

It seems as though the responsibility of cooking, or keeping the house looking nice are only under the authority and only the concerns of the female. The kitchen is the domain of women and not of men. It's not just simple chores. Even the simple act of picking out a bed spread or buying towels that match the shower curtain are deemed unbecoming of men and effeminate. This is just not true.

This idea that there are home making activities that are beneath men is deeply rooted in sexism and homophobia. Its the idea that home making is emasculating, and this is perpetuated in media. Take a minute to go to Google. Do an image search for "home making" and count how many images are clearly geared toward female audiences. I know that this is anecdotal evidence but I think it speaks volumes.

There are few things more manly than taking pride and care in one's surroundings. Keeping up order and appearances can lead to a better peace of mind. Also, a man who cares about what enters his body isn't a wuss or a sissy. Manly cooking isn't all about fatty foods and beasts cooked over an open flame, as amazing as that is.

Discussions about gender roles should not be had to condemn or demonize a group of people, even when they are about the very people that facilitated those gender roles. They are meant to empower both sides to live richer and more fulfilling lives. Be a man, and take pride in your house or where ever you dwell.

God loves it when we take the time to care for and honor His creation. When He entrusts us with an estate or a home, man or woman, it is our duty to take care of it, regardless of how temporary it may be.

Best wishes!

For an example of a great man in a kitchen, check out Chef John at FoodWishes. No I'm not being paid to say that. He really is awesome.