Large Family Living...my thoughts

As each child was added to the family, we consistenly got raised eyebrows and interesting comments. At first we were taken back but everyone of you who currently live in a large family, are raising a large brood and/or aspire to have a Large family will know that this is the normal reaction and eventually you just get used to it!  I am soo used to answering the questions that I've made up my own "standard"  answers and they come out of my mouth naturally now! ha!...
I know as I've chatted with many seasoned mothers/families about this very topic that it is a daily thing to be expected and to just flow with it and as rude/intrusive the comments are to never take offence and to be sweet!

It is also a good idea to have a sitdown chat with your children, as many times after walking away from even some well-meaning people, the children were hurt and vocalized their feelings and questions as to why people would make them feel so belittled and like they were a mistake.  It helps if your children understand that some people honestly do not think before blurting out their questions about a husband and wife`s convictions and  beliefs (or on a side note: even their personal marital  life!)   The children now know to keep smiling and to forgive anyone who has unknowingly said something that was not so nice.

I must admit, it is sometimes hard to be sweet to these people and not ask THEM the same type of questions back . So many times I have felt like saying to the really rude folks.. "Well..why didn't YOU have more children? whats wrong with you?!, dont you know they are a BLESSING not a burden, why dont you and your husband consider having more?!|" just to see their reaction.  AND that would not be a very Sweet or Kind thing to think or Say!

I know that it is all a personal conviction thing and that I would not dare to walk up to a couple and question them such detailed questions about something that is in all honesty, none of my business...

In hanging out with many large families and really getting connected, we have learned that this is something that all Large families struggle with this to some degree and  knowing how to deal with this is key to maintaining a healthy, loving family who`s foundation is not shaken, but rather is built up. We know that living our lives before the One that matters is more important than pleasing those around us. At the end of the day, we need to keep pressing on what we know is right for our own individual marriages/family.  Just know that the next time you see our large family out and about and you look at us like we are a circus attraction, (yes, someone actually said that!) we will look at you no different and love you just the same. We take no offence and will answer your questions as tactfully and respectfully  as we can with honesty and we Love everybody no matter what their family size!