As a woman living in America, I can attest to how much the concept of children is thrown upon me. When this topic comes up in conversation, the people who are saying this usually mean well. However, it seems that they cannot get over the topic of children when it comes to young women.

I am 21 years old and I do not, I REPEAT DO NOT, plan on having children any time soon. If you have an issue with this decision then just remember it really has nothing to do with you.

Why can't a young woman focus on herself and her career without constantly being bombarded with questions like "So when are you gonna have kids?" or "You better not wait too long!" I'm sure many other young women feel the same way.

It feels like our value is placed on the children we produce or the relationship we are in. I am focused on bettering myself.

I am so focused on my career and making my future self happy. In order to do this, I need to accomplish my goals of getting my bachelor's, moving away from Baltimore, and getting a well-paying job. These things are what I need in my life to make me both happy and successful.

Most likely I will have children someday. But that will be a time when I am emotionally and financially ready.

I believe children are amazing. If I ever have children, then they deserve the absolute best in order for them to prosper in a healthy environment.

Being a parent is an extremely important task, and one I don't take lightly. Parents are responsible for the life and wellbeing of another human. Being a good parent is an exponentially important role in society. I will wait for this role until when/if I become ready for it.

It is wrong, however, to treat women and girls as if their main and sole purpose on the Earth is to produce children. So, let's not continue that in 2019.

To all of the women who may happen upon this article, do what makes you happy. Regardless of the influences around you.