A reflection on mothers from a mother "wanna-be"

In college one of my professors gave me praise over a book report I wrote.  I was the only one who followed the directions and therefore the only one to receive and A on the paper.  As he was complimenting me, he asked what I planned to do with the rest of my life.  I told him that I wanted to be a housewife, and that barefoot, pregnant and in the kitchen suited me just fine.  He was appalled. He couldn't believe I wanted to "waste" my life like that.  How could I, such a bright young pupil have no aspirations for my life?  Excuse me? No aspirations?  Have you been a wife or a mother lately?  As a professor, I would assume you could see some small impact you may have on the lives of some of your students.  How much more influence does a mother have over her own children?  I argued that by educating myself and being the best I could be, I could drastically impact my own children and be the best mother I could be.  Motherhood seems to be so undervalued in society. Why? What happened?  Since when did motherhood become a "lesser" vocation for the uneducated and unable?  A mother is so many things.  A teacher, nurse, chef, interior designer, accountant, actor, storyteller, singer,  judge, seamstress, magician, counsellor, manager, boss, and friend...just to name a few.  It seems to me that mothers have chosen the most difficult job of all.  The one that requires you to be everything to everyone. A mother is continually evolving, improving, and adjusting, while still managing to provide stability, comfort and familiarity in the home.  And you thought your job was something to aspire to?  I'm sorry to disappoint, but I think if I want to be challenged, I'll try motherhood.  If I want to put my gifts to good use, there will be no shortage of uses for them as a mother.  Thank you mom, and all the moms out there who have been an inspiring witness to the beauty and gift that is motherhood!