Facial contortions often accompany the revelation that I have chosen to raise just one child, now over the age of four. While friends and family typically respond with understanding and support, I find that it is often the casual bystander—perhaps in line at the grocery store—who reacts most dramatically. Their expressions shift as they pose the familiar question, “When do you plan to have another child?” They seem to hold their breath, eager for the answer that will affirm their assumptions that our family of three is somehow incomplete. When I explain that we do not intend to expand our unique family unit, I can almost see the gears turning as they struggle to process this information, often resulting in a fleeting twitch above one eye.
Ten Responses I’ve Encountered
- Aren’t you worried she’ll feel lonely? (Yes, because I purposely isolate her from social interaction.)
- I once knew an only child, and they were spoiled and unbearable. (Oh, of course, because I’ve never met a challenging person with siblings.)
- I’m sure you’ll change your mind when she gets older and doesn’t want to be around you. (Yes, my child exists solely to alleviate my loneliness.)
- Are you unable to have more children? (If I poke you in the eye, will that help you see better?)
- Have you considered adoption? (Ah yes, I hear there’s a new store that sells children. I should check it out.)
- I have five kids, and it’s been so rewarding. Just last week I visited my youngest in prison, but he’s learning. (Is lane five open yet?)
- When you pass away, she will have a difficult time sorting through your belongings. (How’s the family feud over your father’s will going?)
- Does she only relate to adults? (Sure, that’s why it takes an hour to get her to leave her friends at school. She just loves adults.)
- Does she get everything she wants? I bet shopping is tough. (Oh, I was unaware that being a parent of one prohibits saying “no.”)
- What if something happens to her? (Hmm, I hadn’t considered a backup. They’re all practically the same, right?)
Our decision to have just one child is a deliberate choice. We understand our limits and prioritize a quality family life for the long term. Our trio of family members does not indicate that we are missing pieces; it doesn’t make my partner any less of a father, me any less of a mother, or our child any less of a daughter.
Our family of three is perfect for us, and that is all that truly matters. For those considering their options in family planning, resources such as NHS offer excellent insights into pregnancy and home insemination. If you’re interested in exploring options like artificial insemination, I recommend checking out Make a Mom, which is an authority on this topic. Additionally, you can learn more about insemination methods at Intracervical Insemination.
In summary, our choice for a smaller family reflects our values and lifestyle, and it’s essential to remember that family dynamics come in various forms.