Something Important

Recently I was told by a family member that they felt I should be doing something important, perhaps OUTSIDE the home. Thinking on this more led me to wonder should I volunteer somewhere, find some sort of job, become a birth activist, run for mayor (he he he.) If I did any of these things it would of course leave my kids in the care of someone else during the time I'm out doing "something important." Then I realized, what could possibly be more important than loving, caring for, and shaping my children as they are at such a critical age.
There was a big campaign when we lived in California about FIRST FIVE. The first five years are so important and it was big on promoting preschool. I have to disagree with the school of thought that preschool is the best place for my kids. I don't think it's a bad place, but it certainly doesn't top being with Mom. We play with other kids, we go to all kinds of places like science museums, dance, music, the playground. It's obvious to me that my almost 5yr old daughter is learning because she is now reading books herself and doing simple addition/subtraction.
I am not really interested in academics at this age anyway, that was just something that she reached for on her own and I embraced as I do anything she shows interest in (assuming it's not something like painting the wall with food.) The things they are soaking in right now are my values, my love, and the calm and security of home.
They will have plenty of years to explore the big world without me but I would like to think I will leave a little of me in them to help them on the journey. So for now I will continue this important job as they grow and need me less I am certain I will find other important things to do.