Debbie Schlussel: GOP Palin Mr. Mom Derangement Syndrome
Although there are many readers who've written to agree with me, regarding my column earlier today--about the GOP's and many conservatives' strange new embrace of the Mr. Mom lifestyle and discarding of traditional gender roles of moms raising kids out the window--I note that I've really struck a very sensitive, raw nerve among the tiny (but still far too big) Mr. Mom constituency in the GOP.
Here are the three angry Mr. Mom demographic members' intolerant e-mails. I just have to repeat that these people are just a little too touchy for a reason. They doth protest too much because--contrary to what they're saying--they seem a little embarrassed by their situations. I've removed the surnames and e-mail addresses so as not to shame them:
Sadly you see no joy for how good Americans are meeting the challenges of today. It is not the 1900's. Our own handsome, intelligent, well-kept son is a Mr. Mom and our grandchildren thrive and we are soooo proud of him and the deep love, patience and commitment he shows his family daily. Life isn't a cookie-cutter. You are so sadly bitter and short sighted.Walt and Yvonne
Raleigh, NC
Of course, the parents of Mr. Mom protest. They're embarrassed. He's not the man in the relationship. His wife is. But they have the "kept" part right.
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From: AnnDate: Thu, Sep 4, 2008 at 1:49 PM
Subject: I won't read your lousy crap on Palin again.
To: writedebbie@gmail.com
Ann
Well, no explanation from Ann. But I'm guessing she brings home the bacon, and someone in a jockstrap is the hockey mom bulldog in lipstick.
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You recent comments regarding Todd Palin are why I won't read or pay attention to your opinions anymore. You are obviously a very smart, intelligent woman, but it's obvious you are not married and certainly do not have kids. As one who does, and owns a business with my wife, and raised a few kids, your comments are way over the top. I'll bet I am not the only one who will "take a pass" on your blog from now on.Bruce
Actually, not. Very high traffic to this site, today.
Bruce adds a "PS":
Tell me when you have your sex change
Yup, new mental disorder: Mr. Mom Effeminate Derangement Syndrome (MMEDS, as in, take yours).
Oh, and just to provide a little balance, here are two more of the many e-mails I received from those who agree with me (some were posted after the column, earlier today):
Debbie,Kudos on your post Palin nomination. I've been voicing the same concerns of abandonment of duties to my friends who think this a good thing.
Just long ago many of the concerns on social ideas behind the feminist movement and independence are voiced in Melanie Phillips' book on the women's voting movement at the turn of the century
. I intend to read this book.
Matthew
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Dear Debbie:I couldn't think of another conservative to point this out to, because everyone is on the Sarah bandwagon right now. I agree with you about the family and the responsibilities of caring for the kids, the weird names, etc., etc. . . .
Thanks for all you are pointing out about the "holes" in this VP pick. Like you, I will vote for Sarah and John, but I will be "holding my nose" as they say.
Sincerely,
Bob
Posted by Debbie on September 4, 2008 02:52 PM to Debbie Schlussel