This is such an important topic - especially because the messages we receive as children about our future almost inevitably include talk of getting married and having children of our own.

But the face of parenting has changed! We no longer have a community helping us - or even respecting our role as parents. So you'd better be damn sure you have a 100% committed partner and a network of people to help out.

I did it alone with 4 children - one of whom has serious medical issues - even when I was married. Like you, I can't imagine not being a parent, but if I had known the absolute soul crushing nightmare many of my days would be I wouldn't have done it.

Which is another point I like to make to would be parents: If you aren't ready to be a parent forever - just don't. Any number of things can happen - your child could be born with a medical condition or they could get in a car accident at 16 and need life long care, out any number of things, and you could end up with a child in your home for life.

If you're not ready to commit to something like that, you should probably just remain childless.

Parenting is for the CHILD, not to fulfill some wish or desire of the parent. I think some people get that backwards.

Great article!