Tuesday 8 September 2009

On children and not having them. At the moment.

A while ago I read an article in the paper, stating that couples without children are generally happier and enjoy way better mental health than couples who have procreated.

Reading this article, all I could think was: "Well, duh.."

Despite my mother assuring me that I was a very good child, and a very good teenager, I can remember quite a few instances of being a complete asshole to my parents. A spoiled brat, whining and screaming and slamming doors, sulking and more often than not responding to the question "how was school today" by throwing a tantrum.
As you do.

It is obvious that in an effort to keep from feeling hate and resentment for her child, my mother has repressed memories of any such incident.
Which is kind of great news, since I do prefer her to keep loving me.

Being a parent a lot of times seems to mean putting up with all kinds of abusive behaviour that in any other kind of relationship would be pretty good grounds on which to tell the person in question to piss off.
That is however, in most cultures not considered good or even acceptable parenting technique, though I'm sure the children of Joseph Fritzel might have some objections to that statement.

Anyway.
I'm sure I will at some point in my life at least attempt having a child, considering fiancé's aversion to indoor pets and all, but a process that starts with not being allowed coffee, wine or soft cheeses for nine months only to be followed by being ripped apart from the inside by a small persons head?
As tempting as that sounds, I think I might have to pass.

At least for now.
But who knows, maybe it's like how I used to hate olives and now I really really like them?
Maybe all that stuff will seem like fun and exciting in a year or two.
Until then, I will continue to gorge myself on cheese and wine and maybe I'll throw in a bit of mercury laced salmon just for the thrill of it.

4 comments:

Chamois said...

Why yes, I think it is JUST like the olive concept! lol

I remember those days of adolescence as well, and am therefore extremely worrisome for my future sanity should a child happen to find itself in my womb.

Josefine said...

Yes. Sanity is one of those things I'm already sort of just barely holding on to so I think a child "finding itself in my womb" (haha) might tip the scales. In a not so good way.

Dutch Sugar Babe said...

I couldn't agree more. The whole ripe apart thing is just too much to comprehend. For now.

Roll said...

Haha I'm really enjoying having a read of your blog, its great.

Mmmm good old kids huh!? I have 3 now, and yep, I can vouch for the fact that it can be really taxing, on yourself, your partner, your relationship, the whole lot. Of course anyone will say that its worth it, and it is, I can definitely say I'm a better person, more patient, more understanding of myself and others.. I never actually thought I could love someone so much, I'd give up my life for them without a moments hesitation! They're great!

Anyway, coffee! Surely you wouldn't have to give up coffee!!!? (um..??.. not that I could actually have a baby, but sure, if I could, I'm positive I'd continue my daily brewing!). hehe.