[Transcribed from The Summerside Journal 19 August 1943]
WOMEN AND THE POST-WAR WORLD
IN THE HOME
This is the first of a series of articles on the above subject.
Women are front page news these days. Alongside of our men in the Navy, Army and Air Force, as well as on the Production front, we are giving ourselves completely to the job of winning the war. Are we just as ready to return to our homes to build the framework of the just and lasting peace? Where will the spirit spring from that men must have to continually inspire them to think, plan and work for the country; so that they put all the energy and sacrifice into building peace that they have put into fighting the war.
Here is the job for women and homes can be the production centers for the new world. For to run a home can be a really thrilling adventure. If building a better world just took the brains of clever men it would be simple - because there are plenty of clever men - and splendid new systems could be evolved. But it isn't new systems we need, it's new men and women, free from fear, greed and hate, caring more for their country than for personal ambition.
First, we women must accept a new value for our homes. We must re-capture the art of home-making; for homes are more than bricks and mortar - they are the spirit of caring for each other, of living together so that each learns how to give his best. Imagine the impact of a community if at home, each member of the family is quick with an apology, willing to sacrifice his point of view, his personal advantage and gain. A home where there is faith and courage, where the budget balances, where waste is eliminated and habits of thrift lighten the burden of government; where the floors are as shining as the happy faces of the children; a home where people come to talk over the problems of the day and get new ideas and inspiration.
It is here - in the home - that the blue-print for the brave, new world can take shape and become reality. For strong, selfless children will mean strong, selfless men and women in Government, business and industry. For back of every blue-print must be disciplined and fearless men and women who will lead the world back to sanity.
