My partner and I had our second a few weeks ago and I received a number of 100% genuine (and appreciated) “have fun with the kiddo” and “enjoy this time while it lasts” messages and you know what? I fucking hate the newborn phase.

Lack of sleep makes me angry, and the entire newborn phase is a red tinted haze of fury. Here i am in the middle of the GODDAMN night rocking this fucking potato for 45 fucking minutes and it’s just staring at me without blinking having the time of its goddamn life. My fucking feet hurt, I’m getting fat because food is the only thing that brings me the tiniest flicker of happiness, my partner is frankly a raging bitch and I’m sure I am in return, the toddler loses his mind at the drop of a hat, and I’m supposed to enjoy it?

Nothing about this is enjoyable. I hate every fucking second and I can’t wait to sleep train this goddamn barnacle who I CAN’T EVEN HELP CALM BECAUSE I’M NOT THE ONE BREAST FEEDING and I guess that means the only person the baby will relax with is mom. Being helpful and competent are core aspects of my self image, and this mindless sack of shit has robbed me of that.

I’m so fucking tired.

  • toynbee@piefed.socialEnglish
    1·
    1 month ago

    I agree that it’s unfortunate that we are unable to gain informed consent before birthing a child. I also don’t think any individual is obligated to have a child.

    However, everyone deciding to go child free is a more sure apocalypse than any other potential one we currently face. Yes, I’d prefer to select a consenting soul from the aether, but my kid seems pretty happy to be around so far.

    I also know that we’re facing a less than ideal future that probably will push some hardships onto any offspring we do have. That is unfortunate. However, I once saw a relevant quote on Reddit and have referenced it several times since (paraphrased here):

    “I once apologized to my wife for having kids in such tumultuous times. She said ‘never apologize for raising dragon slayers in a time when there are dragons.’”

    I do not mean to invalidate your opinion - parenthood is a very personal choice and, per individual, there is no wrong answer.