CathNews New Zealand

If I could only give my friends advice, it would be this: have children.

At least one.

But if possible, have 2, 3, 4 … Brothers are our bridge with the past and the safe harbor for the future. But have children.

Children make us better human beings.

What a child does for you no other experience does.

Traveling the world transforms you, a successful career is rewarding, independence is delightful. Still, nothing will change you as permanently as a child.

Forget the “having children will leave you penniless” thing.

Children make you economically aware, and help you think twice on your consuming habits: you start buying clothes at Renner and not at Calvin Klein, because in the end, it’s just clothes.

And last year’s tennis shoes, which are still fresh and comfortable, can last you another 5 years …After all, you have other priorities, and only two feet.

You go to work with more will and dedication; there is a small being totally dependent on you, and that makes you a professional with a drive that other situation would give you.

Children make us overcome all limits.

You start to worry about doing something for the world.

You start separating garbage, doing community work, using products with less plastic… You are the role model to your child, and nothing can be greater than that.

What you eat matters.

You no longer eat chocolate and Coca Cola.

Now you go for bananas and water.

You take better care of your health: eat the rest of the fruits on your kid’s plate, plant a vegetable garden to have fresh seasoning, no sodas during the week.

A child gives you an extra 25 years of longevity.

You come to believe in God and learn how to pray.

At your son’s first illness you almost instinctively bend your knees and ask God to look at you.

And so, your child teaches you about faith and gratitude as no priest, pastor or religious leader ever could.

You confront your dark side.

Your kid decides to bring out his worst side by putting up a scene throws in the supermarket because he wants those cookies.

You feel like screaming.

You see yourself as aggressive, impatient, and authoritarian.

And so you discover that it is only for love and with love that you educate yourself.

You learn to take a deep breath, crouch down, reach out to your child, and see the situation through his tiny little eyes.

A son makes you a more prudent person.

You will never drive without a seatbelt, because now you know you shouldn’t die too soon…

Who would take care and love your children like you do if you’re not there?!

A child makes you want to be alive.

But if you still do not think these motives are worth it, think on that indecipherable thing children have. Continue reading

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News category: Analysis and Comment.