How about instead of the point about “having kids…” may I suggest at least “having kids in your life”? Lots of variables between fertility, choice, income, age, etc. that go into that decision. As someone who does not have kids and whose bio clock is not really ticking to have kids, and whose life is full without their own kids…I still see (and have experienced) the benefit of having kids in your life…whether it be nieces or nephews (bio or “adopted”), volunteering for a youth organization, mentoring, etc. having kids in your life to love and pour into even in a non-parental role keeps you young at heart, and the plus side is…if they annoy you…you can send them home to their parents. 😝 There are a lot of kids who need solid adult role models in their lives. I have spent a lot of my life with other people’s kids as a teacher, a youth leader, a mentor, Aunty Seana and “Aunty” Seana and while I think I’ll always wonder what it would be like to be called mom (for real not as a joke) I don’t feel my life is any less meaningful or that I’m “missing out”. I’ve had some pretty awesome beautiful moments with kids who aren’t mine…after all “it takes a village” right? Even without my own kids, I still have a place in that “village” and consider it an incredible honor and privilege. Just a thought 😊
Hi Seana--yeah that makes sense! I realize having children isn't for everyone--and you DEFINITELY should not have them if you don't want them. But yeah, for people who don't, or can't, being involved in a child's life is such a great way to give back and is also super rewarding. Great comment--thank you!
How about instead of the point about “having kids…” may I suggest at least “having kids in your life”? Lots of variables between fertility, choice, income, age, etc. that go into that decision. As someone who does not have kids and whose bio clock is not really ticking to have kids, and whose life is full without their own kids…I still see (and have experienced) the benefit of having kids in your life…whether it be nieces or nephews (bio or “adopted”), volunteering for a youth organization, mentoring, etc. having kids in your life to love and pour into even in a non-parental role keeps you young at heart, and the plus side is…if they annoy you…you can send them home to their parents. 😝 There are a lot of kids who need solid adult role models in their lives. I have spent a lot of my life with other people’s kids as a teacher, a youth leader, a mentor, Aunty Seana and “Aunty” Seana and while I think I’ll always wonder what it would be like to be called mom (for real not as a joke) I don’t feel my life is any less meaningful or that I’m “missing out”. I’ve had some pretty awesome beautiful moments with kids who aren’t mine…after all “it takes a village” right? Even without my own kids, I still have a place in that “village” and consider it an incredible honor and privilege. Just a thought 😊
Hi Seana--yeah that makes sense! I realize having children isn't for everyone--and you DEFINITELY should not have them if you don't want them. But yeah, for people who don't, or can't, being involved in a child's life is such a great way to give back and is also super rewarding. Great comment--thank you!