On the future of my genes

[causticus]

I have a strong sinking suspicion that I will never have children, because I will never feel like taking on that kind of permanent responsibility. A part of me wishes I felt otherwise, but not enough to cause a change in my desired life style.

Comments

[alenigma]

Not having children doesn't have to be an end all. Passing on one's genes through biological means is not the only way of making the most of a genetic code. Even though our genes are an integral part of the backbone of who we each are, we each are so much more due to just living life and interacting with each other. There are people who choose not to have their own children, or perhaps can not for many different reasons, physical, economics, temperament, what have you. Instead these people make lasting and wonderful impressions on the world that we live in by adopting, fostering, or merely sharing what they do have to offer to others through caring relationships with children, adults or both, thereby passing on personal knowledge and characteristics, habits, etc. that will continue to exist, enrich and be passed on long after they are gone.

*snicker* Then on the other hand. I have also known quite a few who have sworn that they never ever, ever, could have children and they did anyways, lifestyles be damned. And yes their children have grown and are growing up just fine. Families can come in many different forms.