Childfree, Not Childless
I am childfree, not childless.
Childfree is defined as not having any children, especially by choice.
Childless is also defined as not having children; however, this comes with the addendum that it is involuntary and often due to infertility or other circumstances.
I do not like the term childless. Because “less” means without. I am not without children in my life. In fact, for at least 180 days every year, I am constantly surrounded by children. This is due to my position as a school counselor in a middle school.
I prefer the term child free. Child free sounds more positive. I don’t want anything that means less to be associated with me. God didn’t create me or you to have less of anything. He set my husband and I up to have more children than I could have ever produced naturally.
We have numerous nieces and nephews, some biological - some who have “adopted” us as their aunt and uncle. Last year, we were honored to be named God uncle and God aunt to a young man who has the same name as our late son.
Between the children in our family, at work, and at church, God has allowed us to impact the lives of hundreds of children. We don’t take this privilege for granted.
At work, I pray for guidance in what I should say to the children who I will encounter in my building throughout the school year. I do this because I may be the only positive voice they hear. I know God placed me where I am for a reason. I have served as “school mom” to numerous children, and their parents have been appreciative.
My husband and I have a fun and full life when we are not with children. We have enough to keep us occupied between running a business, ministry obligations, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Our life is not without anything we desire. We desired children and God fulfilled that desire, though not the way we expected.
Whatever the reason for your being childfree, whether it is by choice or circumstance, always look for opportunities to impart Godly wisdom, love, and kindness into children you encounter. Your words may be the ripple that begins the wave of change in their life.
Next topic: “Living Out Genesis 1:28 While Being Childfree.” Please feel free to reach out to me with any comments or questions at authortunisiawilliams@gmail.com.
