Children

I have never had a stirring desire to have children, though I always considered adoption the only option if I ever changed my mind. Lately, though-- say, the last year maybe-- I've been experiencing these sudden moments of maternal longing. Ew.

First of all, I'll begin by explaining why I never saw myself as a mother: I have never felt the emotional pull in that regard, but I am also intellectually opposed to the idea. I question why so many people want to have children. I honestly don't get it. I end up chalking it up to all the same reasons I find myself feeling lately, which are ultimately unethical in my estimation, and further argument of why I shouldn't.

1. People want to feel power over something/someone. No one can deny how children look up to their parents. When we are young, Mom and Dad know everything in a hard black & white way. Whichever way Mom and Dad see the world and portray it-- that's the way it exists. That kind of support can really boost a person's confidence.
2. People want to create their own universe. Outside of family, there are truly few people you can count on in this world. And maybe the family you've been stuck with so far has left you wanting more. Children are the built-in date on Saturday night. Moreover, children link you to other people who have children.
3. People are narcissistic. They want miniature versions of themselves.
4. Religion.
5. Tradition. The world revolves around children and families. If you don't have children, it is assumed you either can't or you're weird. It is never portrayed as a healthy, viable option.
6. People think it will fix their marriage. Yes, people still manage to cling to the belief.

Maybe I'm missing something here. Maybe people out there have other, better reasons.

Maybe you're saying, "So what? People do stupid things all the time; why is this such a big deal to you?" I think by creating life, you are inherently responsible for anything that happens to that life. And since every single person who's ever existed has been wronged or hurt, no parent is without blame. This is why adoption is so different. Here you are at least atoning for someone else's mistake. Lemonade from lemons. Making babies when there are so many children who go homeless is like going to the grocery store for a carton of milk when there are already two in your fridge at home.

I'm feeling a bit silly right now. I'm afraid I'm giving an opinion that no one will agree with. Or they might assume I'm talking about someone else... Well, I hope I've raised some interesting points even if you don't find them particularly valid.