Real Women of Clay and Platte County
This is offered in response to a teenage girl I saw recently, who wished her mom was more like the “Real Housewives” of Orange County.
I am in the health and beauty industry so I interact with hundreds of women from Clay and Platte County each month; the contrast to the Real Housewives reality programs is glaring.
Television media is saturated with artifice and the cult of celebrity. While adults will view the shows as entertainment, I do not want this type of programming shaping culture or offering up these women as potential role models for young girls. I would like to offer the following observations about the real women in my world.
Observation 1- those of us who are married are married to our spouses, not our houses. Woman may be homemakers, domestic divas or a myriad of other occupations. I cannot remember the last time that I have heard any woman identify herself as a housewife.
Observation 2 – 99.9% of the women I meet are gracious instead of gauche, authentic as opposed to artificial, and compassionate rather than calloused.
Observation 3- The “Real” housewives of celebrity do not seem to raise anything of value. We raise kids, money for charity, advocacy for great causes and the flag.
Observation 4- we do not embarrass our children by our dress or demeanor.
Observation 5- I have never witnessed any arguments between real women about inappropriate sexual advances towards their spouses, sons or fathers,
Observation 6- We enjoy fashion, cosmetics, hairstyles, handbags, shoes and shopping but are not enslaved by any of the aforementioned pursuits.
Observation 7-Our success comes from our hard work and accomplishments. We may not be considered trophy wives in the conventional context but our spouses treasure our counsel, love and support.
Observation 8- we are genuinely pleased for our friend or sister’s success.
Observation 9- we remind one another not to sweat the small stuff but to remember to schedule our mammograms.
Observation 10- a personal observation or admission- we don’t judge those who choose to enhance their appearances, we applaud decisions that empower and improve. I have enhanced my nails, eyelashes and hair color, but more importantly I’ve enhanced my community and country with my contributions.
Young lady, you owe your mother an apology. Now you get real and get her something nice for Mother’s Day! (If you were my daughter I would be sending you on a little guilt trip!)
Karen Kissinger, certified life and wellness coach and owner of Sonrisa Salon and Day Spa. The opinions expressed above are completely endorsed by Sonrisa, its employees, affiliates and the women we serve.