I was reading an article about a discussion between a feminist and a religious mother of 11 about family size. It was an interesting article but I found a quote in the comments sections that I really liked.
"When I see my teen-age son come home from work and dance around the living room with the baby--kissing and cuddling her, I understand why teens are so lost today. They can't make these appropriate, intimate connections with another human being. There aren't any babies in their world."
(This is about the mother's baby, not the teenager's baby! The article is here: http://www.aish.com/spirituality/philosophy/Big_Families_Desired_or_Undesirable$.asp)
What a sweet mental picture this is. And another similar point - how many young wives know nothing about raising babes when they have their first. Wouldn't the experience be so much more enjoyable and less stressful if the parents had some experience?
Just wondering what you all think - Do babies improve a teens life or impose on it? I know some would make the argument that they shouldn't have to spend time "raising" their younger siblings.
And the article I linked above has some sweet (not rude) responses for when you are questioned about family size in case anyone is interested :)
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2 comments:
Wow- thanks for linking that great article. I'd like to commit to memory all the gentle, intelligent responses to such common questions. It should be the catachism for all moms of large families!
As for babies improving a teen's life, I must say the answer is yes.
I'd ask my oldest 2 if they aggreed, but they're not home right now. My guess is they'd aggree.
Blessings,
Suzanne
Well, my 15 yo and 12yo would LOVE another baby brother or sister. They are wonderful with the baby brother they have already. Their other brothers are just TOO annoying to be really appreciated! LOL
I asked my 15yo ds some time ago if he noticed the differences between his friends who have younger siblings and those who don't, and he said for sure! The ones who do think his little brothers are cool, and the ones who don't just think ANY kids are annoying.
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