Americas child death shame

[Doubting Thomas]

This is exactly why I never try to convince childless people to have children.

Proper answers:

1. but what about your parents? you're not going to give them grandchildren?

You don't have kids just so your parents would have grandchildren. It's awfully selfish of people to exhort their children into having kids just so they'll have grandchildren. And unless you're an only child, perhaps your siblings will provide the grandchildren.

2. but don't you want to leave something behind?

Not everyone cares about this. I'd think leaving behind a cleaner planet better able to sustain life would be better than just having kids to pass on your name.

3. what if your husband/bf really wants kids?

This is something couples have to work out before they make a commitment to be together.

4. who's going to take care of you when you're old?

That's what rest homes are for.

5. you can't always travel and hangout with friends, one day they'll have their families and you'll be all alone.

You'll have each other to travel and hang out with. If your friends are too busy with their families to spend time with you, then they're not really your friends.

6. why don't you think you'll be happy with children? once you have one you'll LOVE it.

There's no guarantee about that, and once you do have one you can't just give it back if you hate being a parent.

7. adoption is not the same as having your own. (when i say i'll never risk pregnancy if i change my mind, since there are kids that already need parents out there)

I can't believe anyone who considers themselves a parent having this attitude. Family is about emotional bonds, not just blood.

8. you'll regret it and it'll be too late (and this one is SO POPULAR)

That's why adoption is such a good thing.

I love my kids, but I don't want any more. I haven't been a parent long but I know it's not an easy job.