I know very well that I’m projecting my adult regrets onto my child. Only children tend to be resourceful, independent, have vivid imaginations, and ultimately develop a strong sense of self. I have to remind myself of this constantly. I have to remind myself that my childhood as an “only” was joyful and productive despite not having a sibling to watch my back in the school yard, to play dolls with, or to bounce stories back and forth with while lying in our bunk beds.
Thank you for sharing your story. As a parent to a two year old boy, this makes me reconsider our plans to just have him be an only child. I have shared with my husband. I had an emergency c-section that was very traumatizing but I am thankful our son is healthy. Being a parent is truly the most wonderful blessing ever and changed my life forever.