As I read the editor’s letter of Cosmopolitan (November issue) where
Farrah Storr said she had previously written an article on her decision not to
have children and all the criticism she received, I couldn’t help but think
about some of the celebrities *cough cough Jen Aniston* that have been
scrutinised for their childless lives. And it baffles me.
Now at 21 years old, more and more people I
knew at school are having children, and more and more of these children are now
planned. I get to witness their pregnancy progress through photos of growing
bumps, ultrasound scans and anything they’ve recently bought for their new
addition. And I think good for them. They are clearly so excited about their
baby and I’m sure they will make wonderful parents. But that doesn’t mean it is
for everyone.
My mum’s best friend does not have children
and never felt the maternal yearning my own mum did. She is a brilliant woman,
still as caring and kind as any woman who is a mother. Two completely opposite views
on children, yet both wonderful people. So why do people make such a big deal
about women who say they don’t want children?
There seems to be an assumption that all
women do want children and there must be something wrong or cold-hearted about
you for not wanting them. It doesn’t make any sense. You can be horrible but as
long as you have a child you’re still a good person? I don’t think so. There
are plenty of women I know of who have decided to not have children and still
live fulfilled and admirable lives.
Luckily I’m at an age where I don’t have to
know whether I will have children or not. But I dread to think if I decided not
to that people would think less of me. But to me, having children is such a
personal decision as they completely change your life.
Image Source
COMMENTS