SEC17 WK:#3: large and small families, likes and dislikes

The matter of the size of a family is highly debated between spouse. It is a matter of seriousness concern as it will affect the family either for good or for bad. In most cases, extended family members influence the decision of the size of the family while it is not always the case in all situations. But then, I personally think that it is the decision of the spouses to make because it is their own family.

When it comes to the choice of family size, the Almighty never stated how many kids a couple should have. He simply blessed them and told them to become fruitful and become many, fill the earth and subdued it. This means that they have the liberty to give birth to as many as possible according to their choice.

So many people have mistaken ideas about this liberty, thinking that you are free to give birth to perhaps any amount so long as you can. Yes, you are free but such couple is still responsible for the the way they raise those kids. If they all turn out to be good children, then fine.

To understand the level of freedom we have in giving birth is just like when we are provided with our best meal or food.

Despite it being your best food, you can only consume the much that would be good for your body. Overeating or excessive intake of such food would only lead to health issues which would be detrimental to us.

But there are a lot of factors to consider before arriving at that decision.

What I consider to be small families are families that are 3, 4 or 5. This is to say that a couple with one child, two or three are among the small families according to me. Whereas those that are from 6 and above are large.

Factors to consider

✓whether the family can be able to care for them all. Each child has a special need and care. If you have many children, can you be able to give attention to their individual needs? With the exposure kids have now at a tender age, there is so much need for adequate and proper parental attention to be given to each child based on their specific individual characteristics. Many look at taking care of children as being just providing for their materials needs, but there is more to it. Teaching and helping them develop great and strong positive characteristics are also the basic responsibilities of parents.

✓the family's financial status. Circumstances change and so is financial status of each family. Even though one can't determine when and how it will turn out to be, one should be able to give birth to the number of kids that no matter what, they can still be able to care for the kids.

It is good to note that some of the most richest men presently in the world have just between 1 to 3 children. With this, it can be easier to pass on the wealth to the next generation.

✓Some other dependent relatives needs. If you are so occupied with caring for your kids' needs, can you be able to care for others who are looking up to you? In as much as you did not owe them anything, but due to the African culture, it is expected that you do the best you can for them.

But then, what will be my choice?

When it comes to choice of size of family, I am the type that love small size family. I came from a large family and I understand what it takes to be from there and the type of attention I was given. That informed my choice or decision to give birth to just 2 kids.

I never got the chance to really stay with my parents. If we were not much in the family, my parents would have insisted that non of their kids be taken away from them.

The financial situation then was nothing to write home about. So, moving out was the best solution then in order to get a better life. I decided that I would not subject my kids to such situation. I chose to have a small family

But this decision was blessed by the Almighty and it worked out the way we wanted because my husband also came from a family of six. Being the first child in the house, it was really tough. But both of us made that decision and it worked out for us.

Yes, this has really helped us to be able to care for the family through thick and thin.

Having a small family has helped us to be able to care for the kids emotional and physical needs.

Although some persons say that when you have so many children, they will care for you at old age. But I have also seen those who have so many kids but who didn't care for their parents at old age.

It all depends on the kids and how they are raised. Additionally, it is good to be able to plan your future well such that you won't place unnecessary burdens on your kids. This is no longer the time one should depend on kids but to plan for the future and be able to support the kids even at old age.

Look! This is the third time I am ready to come to you, and I will not become a burden. For I am seeking, not your possessions, but you; for the children are not expected to save up for their parents, but the parents for their children. (2 Corinthians 12:14 of the holy scriptures)

Hence, parents should work hard to provide a soft landing for their children. That is the reason why one should give birth to the number of kids he or she can able to save up for.

Giving birth to that number of kids that are small can give one the energy to focus on what is more important, which is to train them and to be able to remain strong for them while growing old.

Hence, whether by choice or by chance, one who is opportuned to give birth should be able to have self control at the number to give birth to.

Having a sizable family helps.tou enjoy you grandchildren too. They will be happy to have grandparents that can also assist with their training both financially and otherwise.

	my small family
	growing up in love
	our current stage

Conclusion

The decision to either have a small or large family is dependent on the couple. They have to take responsibility for any decision they take regarding this matter.

Consideration should be given to the state of things generally so that they will have nothing to regret.

I will like @yancar @ninapenda @sahmie @uzma4882 to take part. here