You know, there seems to be a lot of discussion about the ABUSE of the concept of biblical submission - using these passages to unfairly dominate a relationship, women confusing biblical submission with being mousy and subservient, etc.
These "old fashioned" dynamics of strong men and gentle women, protective men and soft, feminine wives, etc. actually DO WORK well in many marriages - and is that a BAD thing?
Why are submissive wives ridiculed or looked down upon? Why are "manly men" who enjoy home cooked meals most nights, having an attractive and rested wife meet them at the door, maybe even with a drink in hand, and with a dab of perfume at the nape of her neck - why is this seemingly ridiculed or considered irrelevent in today's society? Is there something wrong with these dynamics? Is there something wrong with a couple striving toward this pattern?
Sorry but I just don't see it. My husband LOVES for me to get home before him (which I usually do), and have dinner ready when he comes in. I make it a point to go freshen up, put on a little lipgloss and a cute shirt, and have a smile on my face when he comes in. He really does work very hard and goes beyond the expected for his family. I don't mind showing him gratitude in ways that HE wants to be shown that gratitude.
I also love to help him take his work boots off and give him a foot massage with peppermint cream. I kneel at his feet while I do this. Some would call this subservient, but it's really just the best position to give a foot massage in - I promise. He's in heaven!
I also watch my weight and try to keep myself as attractive as possible - because my husband really appreciates that too.
In return, he ALWAYS helps clean up the kitchen, and after dinner we sit together in the living room, share a bottle of wine, read, watch "House" reruns - whatever. If I've had a hard day, he's relaxed enough now to give ME a massage. Let me point out also that he has the "big" job and I have a sort of lightweight job - and we planned it this way, so that we can have a more "traditional" balance to our lives.
My point is this - my little bit of sacrifice between 6-8 pm every night results in one EXTREMELY happy husband who spoils me rotten. Believe me, I don't call this a step backwards for women, or abuse by my husband.
It's a great lifestyle, but it takes TWO cooperative people to pull it off. I took a huge paycut and career "setback" so that I could have a job that isn't so demanding, and he knows he has to work hard to make up that difference. But home cooked meals, clothes drying in the sun on the line, a rested wife rather than a frazzled one, great foot massages, and calm evenings at home were worth it to both of us.
I encourage any couple caught in today's hectic lifestyle to consider how they might simplify their lives and try a more traditional approach.