Wednesday, February 5, 2020

Childfree-by-Choice Gratitude




Hi, Bitchy Readers! 

This week's guest blog is from Janine-aka JLuxe. An empowering read about her childfree awakening. Enjoy! 

Hey there! My name is Janine and I identify as a childfree-by-choice woman. This decision was made two years ago. Previously, I considered having children. Why? Well, it was because I wasn’t aware of alternative options. 

Deciding to birth babies appeared to be the default mode in life for many, so I assumed that I’d take a similar path. Yes, I thought about what it would be like as a mother, but it was a romanticized version of motherhood. The edited kind of motherhood that you see online in movies and on TV.

The ending of a three-year connection sparked a new thought within me. I was in a relationship with a man that thought he was being complimentary when stating that I’d be a good mother to “his” children. “That’s it? That’s all you see in me?” was my response.

He seemed puzzled. He didn’t understand why that wasn’t enough for me. My desire to be recognized for my ability to create via words and visuals was more important to me than being a good mother to “his” children. Although I enjoyed his ambition and confidence, I knew the role he envisioned for me wouldn’t suffice.
                                                        

Following that awakening, I searched for information regarding those who didn’t desire children. During that quest, I found lists that detailed the rewards of being childfree. I also stumbled upon the confessional section featured on the Scary Mommy website. This is when the veil regarding motherhood lifted for me. The confessions submitted on the site are anonymous so mothers are safe to express their real feelings. While reading the confessions, there was a sense of being overworked, unappreciated and unfulfilled. Some mothers dealt with their realities by succumbing to addictions to food and alcohol. The comments confirmed that being childfree by choice was the right choice for me. 

Fortunately, the CF bingos I have experienced are minimal. One mother exclaimed “Oh! When you meet the right guy you’ll change your mind!” This insight was offered after I shared that I didn’t want children. That situation evoked emotions of not being seen or heard by others.

Despite the occasional bingo, I am grateful to be childfree by choice. It is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. My schedule allows me to explore varied interests, study new languages and attend events I enjoy. You know what else? I’m more comfortable being myself now that I’ve embraced my decision. Accepting myself has empowered me to attend a ComicCon, a Naked Magicians show, and various Holistic Health festivals. Yep! All of the aforementioned events represent an aspect of myself.








Thankfully, I exist in a time where it is easier to learn of other CF folks; those who are willing to share their stories via various social media platforms and books. I appreciate those who have shared their truth because it has given me the courage to glorify my own!


Janine Jackson aka JLuxe
https://www.linkedin.com/in/janine-jackson/


Paperback journals for the childfree community!


Thank you, Janine, for sharing your story!  So many can identify with the desire to experience something more. I remember when I stumbled upon the mommy confession boards. Yikes. Not just the confessions about motherhood but the confessions about the state of their relationships. Nothing is easy, but if you don't feel compelled to live the status quo..follow your instincts. 

If you'd like to share your childfree story, please email 

info at lenorafaye dot com


Your story can be anonymous if desired. 


Chat soon, 


LeNora Faye
The Bitchy Bookkeeper
Co-host of Childfree Girls
Author of Childfree Journals






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