Breeder? Child-Free?

clipped from www.guardian.co.uk A letter to... Your dad and I have chosen peace over joy, which is why you don't exist. Most of the time, sitting in our calm, ordered home, relishing the peace, freedom and all the other perks of childlessness, I'm happy with our decision. You see, I won't ever know what it is to cuddle you tightly in my arms and feel consumed with a love for you that is so strong that nothing can rival it. I won't experience you curling into me on the sofa as we look at a picture book together. I won't smell your hair, still damp because you wouldn't let me dry it properly after your bath. I won't marvel at your shining brown eyes, so much like your dad's. Instead I've chosen to fill my lap with the warmth of a cat. I won't look on with horror as our small, carefully furnished house fills with coloured plastic tat. Feathers, stones and other treasures gathered on Sunday afternoon walks won't ever make it on to our windowsills. The beige sofa will remain blackcurrant-stain free.