Sep. 27, 2006 - number of children
Why does the number of children couples have bother other people? Why is it anyone's business? This morning I was in a conversation about a family from my state that has 16 children (there was a little bit of question whether is was 15 or 16). In this varied-age group of all women, most were apalled, some disgusted, some just overwhelmed. The lady next to me said that she wouldn't want to cook for that many. Another lady said that silly comment about she must not know what causes that. Another one mentioned getting a psychiatrist. One lady did come out with "I'm sure she's got the older children to help."
I kept my mouth shut b/c it wasn't the time for me to say what I thought. I am happy for her. I think it is wonderful she's got a big family. I would love to be in a big family. But this isn't the point--whether I think it's good or not. Why is this my business? Why do people have something to say about me having so many (3) or so little (only 3)? I've got the children God's given me. If He blesses me with more, yeah! If He doesn't, should I not be content? Then again, why should I have to explain to this others and be on the defensive?
When God tells Adam and Eve "Be fruitful and multiply," what number does this mean? 4, I guess. Did anyone ever find out how many children they actually ended up having? I don't know; I just don't know.
I know this is a heartfelt deep emotion in so many people's lives and I'm not trying to stir up trouble. I was just thinking about it and thought I put my thoughts down. How do I really feel about it? It's not my business to say for you.
