My mom, who had mental health issues, and divorced my father when I was 5, had a hard time raising me and my sister, although she loved us and tried her best. But this made me very clear-eyed about the hardships of raising children and I always believed it was an important decision never to be taken lightly.

I wanted to be a writer and explore other elements of life, so decided not to become a parent, but this decision wasn't carefree. I have always loved children, especially cuddling with little ones, and always assumed that my multiple nieces and nephews - from my husband's side as well - would be available for me to bond with. But families tend to spread far and wide these days, so much of the bonding never happened.

I still think that I made the right decision for me, but I would have enjoyed having more strong relationships with children during my life, but it just hasn't happened. I tend to be an introvert and get involved in my own projects and don't socialize with family a lot, so I do take part of the blame.

Raising children certainly is a decision not to be taken lightly, IMHO. It is a lifetime commitment and a tremendously selfless act, if done well.