ot the Marrying Kind

ome time ago Baron Von Lodge was the head of a small country near Switzerland known as Lilliland.

Ann Rose was one of the most successful businesswomen in Lilliland and people often turned to her for advice in business and in life, in general.

One question she was asked too often was what her thoughts were about getting married instead of being in business. Her answer was not the typical answer one might expect.

“One of the reasons I chose not to marry was because I like my name and it is my identity. Without my ‘Ann Rose’ name, I would feel that I did not belong anywhere. Secondly, I own three businesses, a teashop, a beauty parlor and a craft shop. All are independent and successful. I am the boss and I worked very hard to make them a success. I enjoy going to work everyday and dealing with people. I would not consider giving it up to stay at home and do domestic things. I am not the stay-at-home type.

“I respect women who choose to stay home and do domestic things and I would want women to respect me for my choice to be out in the business world.

“I really enjoy working hard, being the boss and making lots of money, as well. I am not a selfish person, but money is the reward in business for hard work.

“Maybe this whole thing comes down to a woman’s right to make choices about their life and life activities.

“There are those people who think a woman’s place is in the home and are very vocal in their opinions. These are the people who hold that women are not smart enough to handle business decisions and financial transactions. But I am quick to remind them that business skills and money matters are taught and not instinctive behavior. If women are given the same opportunities as men, they can do just as well as men.

“Sometimes I think women could do better if they saw people as potential customers and gave them the time and attention necessary to complete the business transactions needed to be successful.

“It really all comes down to hard work and dedication to the job, doesn’t it?” Ann Rose concluded.