I have always taken the view that we are put together — whether by a creator or as a result of millions of years of successful ancestors — to lead relatively happy lives if we follow certain basic principles.
Without becoming metaphysical or overly philosophical, it seems reasonable that our being was designed to perform certain basic functions and the more successful we become in meeting these inborn and environmental expectations… the better off and happier we will be.
So what set of principles would I put at the top of the list? My daughter Karen has a poster titled ‘ the secret of happiness’ and number one on the list is ‘Marry the RIGHT person.’
We do know that Men live longer when they are married and — whether they all want to admit it — happier… however, women live longer …. when they have children. You can see where the pressure is on every couple.
Science Daily quote a study that makes the following observation:
“Childless women run the risk of earlier death of poorer health in later life.”
To be fair, there was a slight disclaimer… if you read the above linked article, women who spaced their children less than 18 monthes or had more than 5 children were also at risk.
The only real message is that women were meant to have children… and to forgo the opportunity not only will affect your health … but also happiness — you will miss out on some of the best experiences life has to offer.
Roger Freberg