Worth More Than Rubies

This ground-breaking book by Kathie M Thomas has really put its finger on the pulse of a societal change involving the increasing desire to spend more time with your family while at the same time having the freedom to follow your own life path.

The centre of the book is the Proverbs 31 woman. When I heard that phrase, I had no idea what it meant as I'm not that conversant with the Bible, but nonetheless it struck a chord so I (with a bit of chagrin) dusted off my Bible and set out to read the passage that starts at Proverbs 31:10. I'll include an excerpt for your reference:

10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.

11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.

12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.

13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.

14 She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.

15 She riseth also while it is still night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.

...

28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.

Religious or no, I'm sure that most women can relate to the myriad tasks that this Proverbs 31 woman has on her proverbial plate. Women have basically worked at home since time immemorial, but in (fairly) recent times, many of us have also added work outside the home to this mix. Of necessity, since time is not an endless commodity, some of the functions that were able to happen because Mum was home have been outsourced, downsized or, in some cases, simply neglected.

This book is a considered and contemplative book about how we can look after ourselves, our family and society at large while at the same time building a business from home. It suggests that women can, indeed, have it all, a worthwhile career and the ability and flexibility to look after their families.

For me, the 'proof is in the pudding', as Kathie has raised five girls (along with her husband) while creating a highly successful network of home-based virtual assistants that spans the globe. Her latest coup is writing this amazing book to share her knowledge and experiences with the world.

That's gold—or should I say rubies? For more information, or to purchase Kathie's book, visit: http://www.justlocal.com.au/clients/book/kathie-thomas.

Renée