4/5/2006: Amusement ride in poverty

[Jacquelita]

Originally Posted by MaggieL

Yikes...that *is* frightening. What would you have done if you found out you were sterile?

I guess the point that I was trying to make here is that I probably would've been much more self-centered and immature without the kids coming along. I think it would've taken me a lot longer to learn some pretty basic but important things about priorities. Also - being the primary caretaker for the two kids has forced me to be more independent - I have learned to appreciate that I am much stronger and smarter than I would've ever given myself credit for 20 years ago.

Originally Posted by MaggieL

Some folks would say that's what marriage is about.

I disagree. I believe that marriage is a partnership. A union of "equals". Meaning that each person bears equal responsibility and respect. I would never put my partner above me - nor would I ever put them below me. They must walk beside me to share the joy and the burdens of life.

[xoxoxoBruce]

Unless there's landmines.

[MaggieL]

Originally Posted by Jacquelita

I guess the point that I was trying to make here is that I probably would've been much more self-centered and immature without the kids coming along.

Another family saying was "Raising kids is the only game for grown-ups"...part of the point being that nothing will mature your ass like raising kids...successfully.

Of course, anybody can do it wrong...and the evidence of that is down in Philly selling crack and shooting cops.

Originally Posted by Jacquelita

I disagree. I believe that marriage is a partnership. A union of "equals"

Well, I did say "some people would say...". :-) Learning to draw proper boundaries took me a *long* time...and I had some serious personal issues I had to resolve first.