pukegreen April 28, 20081

I don't wish to be an insensitive prick, but the idea that children belong everywhere and that the rest of society should bow down and accommodate simply because somebody decided to have a child rubs me the wrong way. Pregnancy and parenthood are not like diseases, disabilities, races, or creeds because the decision to have a child is just that: a decision. And when one makes that decision, they are assumed to be a mature adult who is prepared to accept the consequences of that decision. One consequence is that you can't hang out in cool bars and restos and play hipster while annoying dozens of other innocent spectators.

I personally do not wish nor plan to have children. While I understand that they are theoretically necessary (though the world does not need any more first world humans, frankly) I expect that when in public places such as restaurants, stores, and public transit, parents will make a reasonable effort to keep their children quiet, non-stinky, and make sure they do not bother others -- and if the child can't do this, the parents I assume that the parents will take responsibility and leave. I often pray that parents will not be so self-absorbed to actually believe that the rest of the world has ceased to exist or is even 1% as fascinated by the gurgles and blurges of their child as they are. My prayers are often not answered.

News flash: I actually don't think your child is very cute. Despite what you might think his/her/its feces and vomit stink. You certainly have a right to reproduce, but I have a right not be burdened by your decision as I go about my life. If you can't deal with that, do what I do: use a condom.