Lean In

I found myself intrigued by the new book "Lean In" by Sheryl Sandberg. I heard mixed opinions about what she was advocating in regards to women & work. That rather than leaning away we need to lean in to what we are doing so I had to read it for myself.

I must say I really liked this book. I found it to state a lot of truths about women in general. The high expectations that are put upon us to try and have it all. Choosing children and being a mom over having a career. The guilt of working versus staying home. The judgement among women instead of support for the choices we make to work or not work. I think as a woman we have many challenges on all levels and it is ultimately up to us to make choices that work best for our lives. I don't judge women who choose to have a career and have children. Just because you have a child doesn't mean you need to stay home and be a mom. I also totally get women who want to stay home and be a mom because they feel it's important to raise their children. I cast no judgement on anyone's life choices but yet so many women do rather support one another.

 I personally think for myself there needs to be a balance between work and being a mom. Since I have to work to some degree I find that my husband has to pick up the slack while I'm away. If I was home all the time I don't see that happening. He's a team player by default. I also find I need time away from my children. I love them dearly but I also need to be an individual too.

Asiana Flight

On July 5th an Asiana flight crashed landed at SFO. The tail hitting the sea wall and then spinning to a stop just off the runway. The flight attendants immediately got the passengers evacuated before flames engulfed the plane. The airport was shut down for hours following the incident. 3 people died and many were seriously injured including some of the crew. The flights were applauded by the media for their heroic efforts in getting people off the plane. As a flight attendant it was nice to finally see flight attendants get the recognition they deserve. They did what they were trained to do which was to evacuate an airplane in 90 seconds or less. They inflated the slides, commanded their drills and got people off the plane. 

Since SFO is my home base I flew in and out of that airport seeing the Asiana flight on the side of the runway. A little un-nerving but definitely a vivid reminder of what can happen. Later it was moved to a remote area which also happens to be by the employee parking area I park at. Again a visual reminder of what can happen. Although I am reminded visually of the potential hazards of my job I also remind myself how incredibly safe air travel is. I do not fear for what may happen for I know I have no control of the what if's of life. I live each day fully and appreciate each day I am given.