Becoming a parent

You have to take 4 years of classes and get passing grades to get your high school diploma.  If you go to college, you are also expected to pass tests.  When you get your driver's license you have to pass a written test and demonstrate to someone that you can actually drive the car.  Call me crazy but it doesn't make sense to me that we are allowed to become parents without proving that we are capable in any way.  Don't get me wrong, I don't believe that the government or any other entity should be involved in this very important process.  However, becoming  a parent is THE biggest decision you will make in your life.  You are creating another life and you are responsible for shaping that life for the rest of your life yet SO many people enter parenthood with absolutely no thought.   Grandparents are raising their grandchildren because their children can't put their children's needs before their own.  So many, have children too young and can not delay their parties, trips or other escapades to take the time to dedicate to their kids.  It makes me so sad to see emotionally or physically neglected children.    It makes me mad when people don't stop to consider the responsibility they have undertaken when they create that life.  I don't mean becoming so selfless that you don't take care of yourself, we need balance to be good parents.    Being a parent is a serious responsiblity and it seems to be that there should be more forethought.  I almost think that chastity belts should be required until each woman can prove that they will be responsible for birth control or can prove that they are ready to be a Mother.  Father's have a huge responsibility as well but let's face it--they can't create children without our help and the woman is ulimatley responsible if he isn't there for her.  The baby showers and pregnancy are fun and it's great to feel that special.  Babies are SO adoreable, they are soft and they smell good but they also keep you up all night, they poop and they projectile vomit sometimes.   Think beyond the first few years as you will be a parent for life.  There aren't tests so maybe you should adopt a fish then a cat or a dog and if you can take care of them without any major issues MAYBE you are ready.