When I first read your response, my first instinct was to counteract each of your arguments (well, I would say assumptions, really), trying to prove why you are wrong.

But then I realized that this kind of discussion leads nowhere. You believe what you believe, and me denying it would change nothing.

As I read what you wrote, I sense that you might be feeling a lot of challenging emotions of your own. Therefore, I am here to tell you that I hear your concerns, or your anger, or your anxiety — whatever it is that you are feeling that caused you to say such things.

And I love you. Even if you don’t love me, even if you think “I shouldn’t have children because I don’t sound like someone who can be counted on”, even if you think that my relationship depends on my partner’s fear to be alone, and even if it felt painful to read each of the words you wrote. I love you, and I hope you understand that I will not spend my energy discussing with you.

I hope you have a wonderful day. And I hope that life shows you kindness and compassion everyday, and that in turn you can show it to others around you, even when opinions differ and emotions surface.