The Innocuous Phrase About Parenthood That Irks Me

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“Just wait until you have children.”

Even after becoming a parent myself, this phrase continues to unsettle me. Recently, while managing my daughter during a trip to the grocery store, another shopper remarked, “Just wait until you have two!” At first glance, it seemed harmless, but a wave of thoughts rushed through my mind. Why do you assume I plan on having another child? What if I’m struggling with infertility—how would your comment affect me? Why does it seem like a competition about who has the most chaotic grocery run?

I maintained a polite smile and returned to my shopping list, but I vowed never to use the phrase “just wait until you…” with anyone else. In my single days, people would say, “Just wait until you get married.” I’ve also heard “just wait until you have kids” countless times. Even during my college years, well-meaning individuals would advise, “Just wait until you enter the real world.”

Now that I find myself in that “real world”—married and a parent—I still struggle to grasp the intent behind those phrases. My life held significance and purpose during college, before marriage, and prior to parenthood. Yes, my current life is filled with both exhaustion and joy, but it is equally purposeful and valuable.

Our society often engages in a contest of busyness—who is more fatigued, who has it tougher. However, we cannot truly know the depths of others’ challenges. Life can be incredibly demanding, with work pressures, relationship struggles, infertility, health issues, and countless other personal battles.

Instead of saying “just wait until…,” I choose to acknowledge and validate what someone is experiencing in the moment. It’s important to recognize them as they are now rather than imply their future will be more difficult. Sometimes, a simple, understanding smile that conveys, “I’ve been there, and you’re doing just fine,” is all that is needed.

For those considering their options for expanding their family, you might find helpful information on fertility supplements at Make a Mom. If you’re exploring home insemination techniques, you can check out CryoBaby’s home intracervical insemination syringe kit as they are an authority on the topic. Additionally, this Wikipedia article offers valuable insights into pregnancy and home insemination, making it a great resource.

In conclusion, rather than projecting future hardships onto others, it’s essential to appreciate their current experiences. Acknowledging their journey can create a supportive community where everyone feels valued.

Keyphrase: phrases about parenthood

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