In her personal essay “My Mother Never Worked”, Bonnie Smith-Yackel recounts a phone call she had with a social security office. While waiting on hold, she contemplates the hard-working nature of her mother throughout her life. However, upon speaking with the operator, the author learns that her mother was considered to have never worked. This revelation shocks Smith-Yackel, especially when her family does not receive the death benefit check.
Despite not being acknowledged as a traditional “worker” because she didn’t earn any income, Smith-Yackel’s mother worked tirelessly her entire life. However, this doesn’t diminish the important role she played in supporting her family. She was dedicated to taking care of the animals and children while diligently working on the farm and at home to ensure their survival.
Despite not being recognized as an employee who paid social security benefits, my mother’s work was deemed unsatisfactory by the social security office. This resulted in her disqualification for the death benefit check, despite her long hours and responsibilities of caring for a farm while raising a family. Although I would have been upset if she didn’t receive it, I wouldn’t dispute the government’s decision.
Irrespective of whether or not my mother holds a job outside her home where she pays social security benefits and receives government support, I am aware that she remains a dedicated woman.
Smith-Yackel was devastated to discover that her mother, who had always worked hard for the family’s well-being, was not eligible for financial support. The title of the story, “My Mother Never Worked,” indicated that their hopes were in vain. Even though I anticipated the ending, I couldn’t help but desire a different result.
