Why Have Kids?

Sometimes, I’ll read something about why having a child is not such a good idea. Topping the list are things like how having kids cramps your style, drains your financial resources, contributes negatively to the environment, and consumes your marriage. Then there are those who think you should have kids but only one or two for the same reasons.

As a mother of four, I’m often greeted with explanations of “How on earth do you do it with four kids?” as if I deserve a medal just for breathing, much less living in a house with four youngsters and a husband. Why did we have children? Let me count a few reasons.

1. Because my husband and I love each other. Sounds strange, but our love for each other finds part of its expression in our children. Our love for our children strengthens our love for each other.
2. Because we have a care for our future. Not just our future, but the future of America depends on population growth. Yes, some naysayers think the world is overcrowded, but children are our future.
3. Because we love God. In Genesis, God said we should go forth and multiply. In having children, we’re fulfilling that command.
4. Because we love kids. Children are plain fun most of the time (and frustrating at times!), but it’s been a joy to raise them. The things they say, the way they act, the love for us and each other all make it worthwhile to be their parents.

Why we had four instead of two or three or six? That number sounded right to our family, and we were blessed that we could have four children. Each family’s number is different and that’s okay, too. We’d be pretty boring if every family looked like every other family.

That’s just a few of the reasons we had children. What are yours?

Until next time,

Sarah