Ever since I could remember, I have wanted to be a young parent. When I tell people this in an off-comment, a majority of them look at me in awe and surprise. Emma, why would you want to have your first kid by your mid-20s? My response: why is it so "bad" to want to start my own family when I want to start it?
In today's world, it is becoming more commonplace for our generation to focus on their careers and to get their footing underneath them. While that is great and I admire that about our generation, it also doesn't sway me from my opinion. I really do believe that I am meant to be a young parent. It's something inside of my that is a little hard to explain.
So, I've compiled the three main reasons why I want to be young parent -- and why it isn't bad to be one.
1. I'll have more energy.
Imagine your two year old child running around the house. Now, imagine chasing him or her down when you're 28 versus when you're in your 32. Four years makes a difference (freshman Emma can attest to that in sports). I would rather be able to take my kid to the park and actually be able to run around with them. I don't want to worry about being extremely exhausted all the time, which seems to worsen with age.
2. I don't want to be super old when they have major life moments.
If you have your first child at 30, for instance, you'll be almost 50 by the time he or she graduates high school alone. Now, by the time he or she gets married, which is progressively getting pushed back (hence older parents), you will be almost 60. To me, I want to experience more of my children's lives.
3. It's just how I'm wired.
For all the reasons I could give, this is the real reason. I just feel the need to be a parent. People who are in the same position as me understand what I'm trying to say. I have always loved kids and have had baby fever, especially in the last year or so, but it's more than that. I have this instinct of sorts that makes me know that being a young parent is for me. I can picture it.
But I want to make clear that for as much as I say I want a kid right now, I don't think I'm truly ready. I do want to have some sort of financially stability and long-term relationship. I want to be able to bring up my kid(s) in the best environment possible, and, if that so happens to be when I am 25 or 26, I am not opposed to it. However, it's not the end all be all for me. I don't want people to read this and be like this girl is crazy. I am reasonable and cooperative, and, if my spouse wants to wait, I'll understand.
At the end of the day, though, I think it's wonderful for all those out there that are like me and want to bring kids into this world when they're younger. Don't let people dissuade you. It's your life.
Also, talk to me in like five years. We'll see if I want a kid then or not. Opinions change, don't they?
