The author reflects on her journey of accepting a life without children and grandchildren. Initially feeling sorrowful during events like baby showers, she eventually shifts her focus to the joys of being an aunt-like figure to friends' children. She finds peace in the freedom her situation allows, including personal time and career opportunities. The realization comes that love and involvement in the lives of others' children can be deeply fulfilling, and she embraces her role in their milestones while cherishing her independence.
It took me a while to accept that I wouldn't have my own kids. I finally realized I liked having my own time; I could dote on my friends' kids and then come home.
Eventually, I realized I could be happy without becoming a parent. I clearly remember the day I came to terms with not realizing my long-held dream of having children.
I could love them, attend their recitals, concerts, and graduations, yet still have the time and freedom to travel the world and thrive in a career that involved late nights.
When she handed me a picture of a sonogram and told me her baby girl was due in six months, I cried with joy.
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