The New York Times article “‘Family Friendly’ White House Is Proving Less So” depicts the White House staff’s struggle with the hope vs. the reality of work/life balance. This puts a realistic, and very public face on the dilemna that parents across the country face. Chief of Staff, Rahm Emmanuel, Press Secretary, Robert Gibbs and Christina D. Romer, Chief Economist are just some of the staffers interviewed about the toll that working long hours takes on their children, marriages and inner selves.

The article let’s the kids weigh in as well. Rahm Emanuel’s son’s comment speaks volumes.

Mr. Emanuel said he knew the Obama-mania was waning in his household when he told his son recently that they would again be savoring father-son bonding time at the White House on a Saturday.

The 12-year-old did not jump for joy. He set conditions.

“I’ll go,” his son said, “but I don’t want to sit through another Iranian meeting.”

It is helpful to hear the thoughts of mothers and fathers we respect talking honestly about the tug of war they face about pursuing their professional dreams and their commitment to being available to and engaged with their families.