Since 1984, when I was born, societies are more open. China’s opened up to capitalism. Many countries and non-fundamentalist-saturated US states have legalized gay marriage. Interracial couples and their beautiful babies are more common than ever. So I’m wondering what will be the new OMG?
People in their 20s are pierced, tattooed, and racing out of their sexual and gender roles. So as they, and someday I, have babies, what will our kids do that we’ll simply balk at?
If we’re already listening to metal, gangsta rap, and drum and bass, will our kids rebel with Mozart or Debussy? Or get no tattoos or piercings where we’re inked and punctured? Maybe.
But my guess? Marriage.
We’re already starting to see it in the main stream. Some are already heading towards divorce, infidelity, and open relationships. I grew up on Disney and still want some shiny, white, brunette prince with impeccable fashion taste and manners to swoon me (a shiny, white, blond peasant girl with raggedy clothes but a heart of gold). But for our kids, these standards may or may not exist.
I think we’d probably want our kids to end up with someone and get married and have kids. But it might not happen in that order. Here’s my rationale against marriage, at least until later in life:
- We’re living much longer. The financial adviser (much better predictor than a doctor lol) told me the other day that I can expect to live to 95 (what?!). Now, ’til death do us part during the bible days was like 20-30 years. But 50+? I can’t imagine.
- There are more choices out there, so we’re pickier. If we’re not restrained by distance, gender, race, or any other factor, then we can choose to be choosy. Therefore, if our relationship’s run its course and we find someone better, why not move on?
- It’s not longer scandalous to have babies out of wedlock. Hell, it’s barely scandalous to have a baby while still in high school. So deciding with your committed boyfriend to raise a child together and realize that you’ll work things out for your offspring regardless of your personal relationship sounds pretty reasonable. Have kids while it’s biologically safe, but realize that doesn’t ‘lock’ you in forever.
- There’s a magazine called Divorce. Something ain’t workin’.
What do you think?
