I know that in general it’s best for teenagers not to get pregnant. Their lives and the lives of their children are dramatically, and often negatively, effected by the young parental age. I know (and have done research and written about) the serious and wide-ranging negative physical, emotional, social, and psychological issues associated with teenage parents.
Nevertheless, when I look at the faces of the parents-to-be in this picture, I can only smile and wish them all the best in the world. The excitement and happiness that shine out from this young couple is astounding. Take a really close look at their faces – and remember that even if it was different for you, lots of teenagers are responsible, good people who will be just fine as parents.
I’d like to think that responsible adults look at all teenagers and “wish them well in the world.” Those of us who did not have adults wishing us well didn’t do so well. Those of us who do have adults wishing us well, do better. The thing is, those kids might have – – – lots of things. We don’t know. But, frowning and being negative toward them will not help them and they are capable of making bad decisions on their own. So, even if we don’t agree with the decision, we can help them have a better life by wishing them well and being available to be in relationship with them – a place where they can come talk, cry, ask advice. Maybe even mourn the loss of their carefree youth. I’ve had friends as an adult (several close women friends) who had children when they were 16 and 17 – and did a great job raising those kids. They lost something in their own life, but they gained something as a parent that can not be wished away by any parent in love with their child. So, Dr. Rayne, I’m glad you “wish them well”, I hope we all can.