The only example I have is myself.

I never wanted to have children. I never felt obliged as a female to reproduce. I am the youngest child of three from an unhappy marriage. We have no close family this side of the ocean. Never held a baby. Never had any experience caring for the physical needs of another. Never thought of myself as maternal, although I have always loved all animals and nature.

When I got married, in my mid 30’s, I made it clear it was not in order to start a family. I could not wrap my head around the undertaking of caring and raising a little human being. I felt flawed and did not want to be entrusted with such a huge responsibility. My husband only asked that I would consider it. I knew he would be a good husband, and I agreed.

A couple years married, after a lot of pros and cons, we decided to have a baby.

I was happy before I became a mother. I am happy now as a mother. As a result, I even have patience now for other peoples kids and teenagers. I’ve determined that there is a chemical change that happens in the brain. I feel maternal now and couldn’t be happier. I think nature does this not only in order for you to be a good parent, but also to push us to reproduce. Every snap crackle pop in our bodies wanted to have a second baby – but we would sit on opposite sides of the room and wait for the feeling to pass.