I FAIL TO understand the point of Monique Doyle Spencer's March 23 op-ed, "Working women, where did we go so wrong?" It struck me as a poorly argued attempt to hold generations of professional women responsible for her intolerable work schedule. Her one positive suggestion - creating more efficient and therefore shorter work days - while a good one, has literally nothing to do with gender in the workplace.
The women of my acquaintance joined the workforce seeking professional development, personal satisfaction, and financial independence. Most are self-employed or working for nonprofit organizations. We have learned that we can make choices on our professional paths that nurture our growth and support our personal lives.
Rather than berate those women who have chosen to compete in the corporate sector, Spencer should find a job more conducive to the life she desires. Perhaps she could join me in the nonprofit world, where employers tend to value family and reasonable workdays over billable hours.
NATHALIE HIGHLAND
Cambridge
