I absolutely agree with Dan Powers (“Wrong to say mother who stays home doesn’t work,” letter, May 4, ) that mothers who stay at home to raise their children are definitely working.

So are fathers who stay at home, and anyone else who cares for children full time.

I stayed home with my son for as long as I could afford to, and it was certainly the hardest and most rewarding work I’ve ever done.

So Powers’ statement that, “A liberal would never appreciate a stay-at-home mother, but would defend a reversed role, such as a stay-at-home father or gay couple,” is only half-true: I’m as liberal as they come, and I respect anyone who takes on the challenge of being a full-time caregiver to the next generation — mother, father, step-parent, grandparent, foster parent or whoever can provide children with the love, patience and nurture they need. It’s the most important job in the world.

Claire Prontnicki

Waterville