Chelsea Handler Discusses Being Childless by Choice - Long Story Short | The Daily Show

[@denisetodd8844]

I am 67 and have had all kinds of stuff like that thrown at me. Until a lady told me long ago to ask "why do you HAVE children" and refer to myself as childFREE instead of childLESS. Now as I am past childbearing years I get the "who's going to take care of you?" comments. I work in assisted living and there are times when I don't know the residents had children until they die and then they come out of the woodwork. Just because you have kids doesn't mean they will like you. lol 100% love this one, Chelsea!!!!!

[@mutteringcrone1210]

Excellent points. I never understood the "selfish" argument. And I think we all know people who are estranged from their families.

[@esteemedmortal5917]

Yeah, that’s my response. You think everyone in a care home never married or had kids? 🙄

[@denises9936]

My sister used that one on me when I was trying and couldn’t get pregnant. They’re not gonna take care of you when your old. As I explained to her, that’s not why I want a child. I ended up adopting a child and she is the greatest blessing in my life.

[@nilsanieves3457]

Most (98%) of the old people I know are either abandoned in a nursing home or completely neglected and dying alone in their home. Their children and grandchildren are too busy living their own lives.

[@roberti8116]

having kids DOES NOT guarantee anyone "taking care of you"

[@brendazimmerman3267]

I don't have kids, and I spent my life helping other people raise their kids. I'm the best Aunt and friend you'll ever have!

[@philippebrehier7386]

Exactly. And you know what is the best mean to "win" against climate change ? Women education is ; all around the world. They take care of themselves first, AND they make babies IF they want to.

[@noway9081]

So long as you always have gum you are awesome 😎

[@TheRandomINFJ]

Sorry but i won the *BEST AUNT* title. Nobody's a better auntie than me. Facts. ❤️

[@MISNM0]

💜

[@shannon222ish]

Same. Congratulations 👏

[@lunaholiday8585]

I worked with a woman who said she didn’t want kids. Everyone told her she’d change her mind, etc. Except me. I was pregnant with my first, but I always knew I wanted kids, she always knew she didn’t, and that just made sense to me. She was glad I understood. (And she was the best at complimenting my maternity outfits!) She and her hubby had a cute dog.

[@ramjet5192]

Luna, I was the oldest of 6, with 10 years between me and the youngest. So, been there. Now 68, I still love living alone, with little noise and broken valuables. What all kids do. So, been there. Best to you. By the way, I never had so many women responding to any of my posts. When you're a parent, you really are. Assuming you had little time to check, except on homework papers, it's March, 2023.

[@hussainakram6823]

Chelsea isn't funny.

[@Freya1412]

​@@ramjet5192 I'm the oldest of 8 and was very much in a motherly role from a young age. I definitely wanted kids because I was so used to having people around me and noise and chaos. My twin brother on the other hand declared to the entire family the other day that he and his wife are child free. When pressed on the matter by our mother he calmly said, he already experienced parenting young children and he hated it. Loves all his siblings but is so grateful for the freedom to just do as he pleases and to be able to sit in absolute silence sometimes. We respect his and his wife's decision, all except our mom who was very hurt and offended. She'll get over it.

[@mariaquiet6211]

​@@hussainakram6823 we were all dying for you to weigh in, thank you

[@SUGAR_XYLER]

Yeah, back in the 1980s women told me I'd change my mind too. I didn't. I'm now 58 and have never changed a diaper in my life 😂

[@jaidev777]

I'm really not about to listen to anyone criticize childlessness until every adoption center and city street is empty of children in need of a loving home.

[@segamai]

That part.

[@conniehowell-yg1hb]

right what about women that take care of other people's kids

[@SipLeila]

Oh, but have you adopted or fostered yourself? Or do you want everyone else to fill those roles? Like Kamala - why didn't she help out? Mother of 2 adopted children.....

[@kellilandry2825]

@@SipLeilaKamala is a dedicated step mother! 🤦‍♀️

[@SipLeila]

@@kellilandry2825 Oh, wow. You are really desperate. Of course she missed all the diaper changing, bottles, tantrums, etc. There is no comparison and by the way, her step-daughter is not turning out well.

[@germandimplez]

I’m a nurse. Just to make conversation a lot of my patients ask how many kids I have. “Zero. I never wanted kids”. They reply “who is going to take care of you when you get old?” I reply “Well incase you haven’t noticed I’m a nurse. I have worked in Nursing Homes. The majority of people living there never get visitors. Not even a phone call.” Shuts them up everytime.

[@Walperion_Music]

Ooh never knew that is the case, so heartbreaking! Thank you, you made me realize I want to talk more to my mom. :)

[@WPS691]

That's not why you have kids though.

[@pla4825]

I have volunteered in Nursing Homes and I have tried to explain this to people because I 36 yrs old never been married no children

[@germandimplez]

@@pla4825 I think that’s the whole point. Sweetie you shouldn’t have to explain. Just because we are women and just because we have uteruses doesn’t mean we have to be married and give birth. That way of thinking is so old. From now on dear don’t explain your decisions to anyone. It’s none of their business!

[@terryc4883]

Who’s going to take care of you??? Odd cause my gran was in a nursing home, looks like there are lots of children whose parents are waiting for them to visit. Sad.

[@kreiner1]

As a mom who has loved being a mom...there are 8 billion people in the world and no ones "blood line" is so important that it needs to be continued. Rock on if you don't want kids, have fun, it's time women support women no matter what they choose.

[@Berlynic]

You are a legend, sister!👏👏👏 Cheers to people like you!!! ❤❤❤

[@rachelgallagher6214]

Yes ✌ 💙 from Montana

[@taxusbaccata1154]

You're right. 8bn and counting. We certainly are not in peril of extinction if some of us do not add to it.

[@leehartlee2970]

EXACTLY! I love being childless!

[@oldsesalt8496]

If Lincoln's blood line died out, then they all can.

[@gromit0299]

Kids aren’t for everyone and I respect people who realize it early in life.

[@toma5153]

Yes, I've had children. But I see a lot of dysfunctional couples who never should have had kids - abusive, alcohol, drugs. Then it's the kids who suffer.

[@TheRealRedFlashlight]

@@toma5153 so true!

[@shawheenblount2685]

Yes!

[@MoonLight-zk3gm]

​@@toma5153yes and these are the people who should not have children

[@dragonfly4water]

@@gromit0299 thank you! I'm always like why am I not respected for the fact I realize I shouldn't be a mother?

[@salliem424]

A lot of men ask me how I got so lucky making it this far without kids... It's very simple, I don't want them, so I don't have them.

[@natalievilla1609]

Right??! I’ve always said, If you really don’t want kids, you will do everything in your power to not have kids

[@MoonLight-zk3gm]

Wow! The fact that men are telling you how lucky you are, goes to show that childless women are actually more appealing to men

[@dragonfly4water]

@@MoonLight-zk3gm you would think logic would step in and the fact that there are so many single mothers with children needing their fathers would be a clear indicator that there are men that also don't want kids!

[@SipLeila]

You could help out by fostering and adopting. It might actually touch your heart.

[@dragonfly4water]

@@SipLeila the whole point is we don't want kids! And who says we aren't helping out. We help family and friends pay for things and get time away when they can't.

[@jerylanne4892]

I had my tubes tied at the age of 25. It was a conscious decision. I am now 65 and I can honestly say I have never regretted it for one second. I'm happy for those who enjoy parenthood. But I appreciate my right to choose not to. So, I'm with you Chelsea! Thank you for setting the record straight for those of us that choose to be childless.

[@DD-d6d3]

I'm sixty and so delighted not to have kids!

[@patrickdupiton8953]

U will soon

[@patrickdupiton8953]

@@DD-d6d3 u will

[@xzonia1]

@@patrickdupiton8953 Doubtful. Still, better to regret not having kids than to regret having them.

[@patrickdupiton8953]

@@xzonia1 so don't have them who's forcing you really ? Ya only talking about it for guilt .nothing else reslly

[@Artemis-jr3pz]

"What if your future husband wants children?" "Why would I marry someone who wants such a different life than me?"

[@Cassofalltrades]

They would remain a stranger, acquaintence or if they're lucky a platonic friend.

[@reneharde3459]

My mother used to say something similar in regards to religion - basically "what if you met your life match and she was deeply religious?" - maybe she was just visually fixated, but how is that even possible when I am a devout Athiest and said woman would think me just a nihilistic hedonist?

[@COMPUTER.SCIENCE.]

Exactly. Morons like to ask moronic questions. 🙄

[@betsyveritas1055]

You wouldn't & neither would she.

[@dragonfly4water]

@@Artemis-jr3pz what if I wanted him to be a millionaire and he's not why would I marry him? Lol

[@shaund9759]

I don't care if its not at The Daily Show, but Chelsea, we need you to come back to late-night! We NEED you! You speak our minds and you've always got our backs!!

[@dburnsauthor]

💯 percent agreed!

[@kevinwatters358]

I love her and would watch it every night if she was the main person. Not to mention I got a crush on her.

[@rockhero2274]

I love her too. But she's gotten a little too woke. 😕

[@yurilookingforhisvictor7674]

@@rockhero2274 gross.

[@MISNM0]

💯💯💯❗

[@darrenm.7980]

The way people act so negatively to people not wanting kids is insane

[@kateSullivan3927]

It's just miserable parents who are jealous of other people's freedom

[@Joshcoshbagosh]

it seems to be A LOT worse for women specifically. I guess there is just more of a natural instinct to want to reproduce and nurture young with them. I have even seen it go as far as the suggestion that you are "not a true woman" if you don't experience childbirth at some point in your life. Just a terrible attitude tbh, and I feel those that have to face these kinds of expectations.

[@l-pv5793]

Misery needs company

[@adish7275]

@@darrenm.7980 because it's un natural

[@kwill84]

@@Joshcoshbagoshtotally true my husband and I are childless by choice and it doesn’t come up with him in conversation but I’m surprised how often it comes up when I meet people. It’s like kids are a women’s only purpose

[@lisajanco569]

Having children when you are not equipped to care for them is selfish. Choosing not to have children is NOT selfish. It is mindful.

[@YoungtrapoF]

Say that to the Peruvian family living with 6 children you don’t need money for kids because it doesnt cost money

[@kamehameha-xxx]

When would a person know that they are equipped to care for a child? With that logic, there would be far fewer parents and far fewer people. A person GROWS into being a parent... That might be one of the most substantial "growths" an adult will have in their life

[@Andrew12217]

@@kamehameha-xxx when they enthusiastically want one. And have the money to give them a decent life. At the very least enough money that no one needs to starve and healthcare is provided.

[@Sammie551]

​@@YoungtrapoFthey are suffering in poverty though

[@lawsattitude1999]

Both are selfish.

[@brittanyk8028]

I have a coworker who is twice my age, she is an incredible mother and grandmother and a very sweet person. I expected some disappointment when I told her my husband and I were not planning to have children but she was completely supportive. She said she loves her kids but if she could live twice she wouldn’t have them. I never expected that from her. But it was really comforting since usually everyone is telling me how much I’ll regret it.

[@dee_dee_place]

I'm 64 & I NEVER regretted getting a tubal ligation at 22.

[@Echo81Rumple83]

Life is not like playing a video game, unfortunately. You have only one life to live, no resets, no alternative play styles, no what-ifs to try out. Yet in every farm simulation games like Harvest Moon, Story of Seasons, Stardew Valley and Rune Factory, the game pressures me into getting married and having kids in order for any progression or additional content to be made and accessed. Geez, even video games are judging me 😖

[@dee_dee_place]

@@Echo81Rumple83 I don't play video games, so I don't know how they work. What you just said makes me wonder who writes these game situations... Men &/or Women. I've always been the odd person out in my family. I knew since I was 7 that I wanted to go into medicine & that I was going to college. The thought of getting married & having a family was the furthest thing from my mind. When I started HS, I told all my guy friends from Jr. HS that I was there to get an education so I could go to college, & not to find a BF, a future husband, &/or get pregnant, so pass it on to all the other guys; Don't Even Bother Asking Me Out. The only one who didn't get the memo was a new guy who started in 10th grade. He asked me out. We went to dinner- pizza. Then I went to his apartment to meet his Mom & have lunch. She took one look at the Star of David around my neck, & that was the end of having to deal with her son; she made sure of that.

[@nilsanieves3457]

You will never regret it. Stop listening to miserable people who can’t “return” their kids and ask for a refund. 😂

[@SweetLikeKiwi]

@@Echo81Rumple83 I straight up did Stardew 3 (incomplete) times before I realized I wasn't progressing in certain parts because it never occurred to me to get married and have kids LOL

[@mpilokhoza3558]

It takes having a child to understand why some women "DON'T" want to have children!! I do not blame you ladies

[@shannon222ish]

As a woman without any TY for understanding us & I applaud you for your work & TREMENDOUS SACRIFICES!

[@HolidLove]

All it takes is knowing a child. 😂😂

[@ziljanvega3879]

@@HolidLoveall it takes is remembering what a brat I was. The adults used to say “just wait till you have kids…”. Nope.

[@PBthesquirrel]

@@shannon222ish I love the mutual respect you and the original commenter have for each other 💜 I'm a young woman and I'm unsure whether or not I want kids. Regardless of what I choose, it is nice to see two women with very different lifestyles support each other like this. It makes me feel like I don't have to worry as much about other people's opinions over my own future. 💜💜💜

[@MsLashun]

Exactly! I had one and said neva again!

[@Kyiverdam]

I don't see childless/free men or MGTOW men being shamed for not having kids.

[@mochaCF61]

Seldom does that happen. It is easier to pick on women because of the thought that supposedly most women are weak.

[@MoonLight-zk3gm]

The goal of Misogynistic idiots like vance are to specifically bully and attack women, his comment was more than clear about that

[@MoonLight-zk3gm]

@@adrijanakozic6058 apparently vance does care by making misogynistic comments

[@dragonfly4water]

@@Kyiverdam exactly! How dare we want the same as so many men!

[@annmarieknapp]

It's women they want to control, not men.

[@Mfootechargerssd82]

40yo childless woman. My mom always tells the story that when I was helping her empty the dishwasher at AGE 3, I looked her in the eye and said "mom, I don't want kids, they're too much work" 🤣 wise beyond my years!

[@1IGG]

I believe it. My 3 year old daughter says things like that all the time.

[@edavid2557]

And you were lucky: you had a dishwasher!

[@Lionesse-z41553]

I was 8. I looked at my very pregnant aunt one day and was SO grossed out.

[@Susie_Floozie]

Nope--you're actually a 40-year-old child-FREE woman. *Fistbump, Sister!*

[@Lionesse-z41553]

@@Susie_Floozie 💯!

[@angelofverdun456]

I’m a 47 yr old male. When i was 26 i got a vasectomy. Not once have I ever had any regrets. I did it because I wanted to do it. I saw people with kids and I said I don’t wanna do that. Being pro choice is quite amazing.

[@cchege]

No one will remember your name.

[@dee_dee_place]

@@cchege And you think they'll remember yours?

[@TheNewMexican78]

@@cchege like you are so important 😂

[@Singer_and_Songwriter]

I think I'm in love!! You're what I call husband material!! #nokids 😍😂

[@SlimKeith11]

@@cchege If that's what's most important to you than that's AOk but maybe that's not what's most important to this bloke-fwiw, there are thousands of people throughout history whose names we remember who didn't have children.

[@heythere4732]

I'm a woman who doesn't want kids. Never have. I've been lucky enough to get my tubes tied in January of this year. I live in Oklahoma and have been mad and scared since they've banned all abortions. An older woman who was my boss and I were working together, talking last year. The topic got to her grandkids. She asked if I had kids. I said no. She said something like "don't worry, it'll happen one day" I without thinking said "oh no,I don't want them" she looked at me like a just drowned a bag of kittens. It was weird between us til she quit.

[@powers1217]

Sounds like a typical Okie (I’m from Oklahoma too). They simply can’t fathom someone who thinks differently than they do because they surround themselves with like-minded people all the time.

[@emilyfeagin2673]

I had people say that to me too. I just smoked and thought to myself “ not as long as I keep swallowing that little white pill”

[@darcy5761]

Womwn have been raised from birth being told that nothing they do will matter except having multiple kids. Beibg trapped with children is a great way to keep women down .

[@pigpjs]

Being a parent is so difficult, no one should have kids if they aren't 100% sure. It is incredibly weird how obsessed some people are with others having kids.

[@realityobserver7521]

This is exactly how I feel

[@bretthenning3419]

"who" are these people you speak of? what problems are they creating for that you are so worried?

[@derejfirde9235]

why are you even on this planet if you dont want kids? Go take the rocket ship to mars and do us all a favor and spread humanity elsewhere.

[@thenaturalyogi5934]

Yes, I always look at the kids of nosy people who insist that everyone should have kids. Then I find that they brought up kids who are now adults with serious issues.

[@derejfirde9235]

@@thenaturalyogi5934 you probably just hate people because they made better choices so you hate their adult children for no other reason other than pure hatred. Sad existence bro.

[@sueharries4639]

I have 2 children.... I totally respect the woman's right to her own body choices. I was slammed as a mother when I stayed at home to look after the children by other mothers and slammed when I returned to work 😑 can't win. Now a grandma, so, leave us alone, we are happy with our own choices 🙂

[@subject8776]

Maybe you should slam the haters literally once in a while.

[@Danieltp3]

So many people are so concerned with what other people do with their bodies and their lives that has no effect on them. Glad you found happiness!

[@Echo81Rumple83]

What?! Why?! Not only is it hard to find friends you can rely on for any help with anything like babysitting, our current economy is set up in ways that we have NO CHOICE but to go back to work after having kids, esp. after the trauma of child birth! In fact, both choices of either staying at home or going back to work are DEVASTATING depending on the situations.

[@moniqueengleman873]

Amen. I love being a grandma who lives by myself. I am really enjoying this aspect of Life. 😁❤️

[@KingBasieSims4]

This is why I never liked working moms who bash stay at home moms because there really is no need to do that. You're all parents you all have kids and both made choices that work for you and your family at that time or even forever.

[@adamkauffman9311]

My wife and I love being parents, but no one should have kids if they don't want them! It's your own decision.

[@acmelka]

Right? A lot of people who do really shouldn't... people should think it through not just do it because that is what people do

[@mermaiddiyartist8119]

It’s also not easy and everyone should be put through a test so abusive parents aren’t parents. Just saying

[@trahmusket631]

yes

[@shortattentionspangarage1312]

Tell that to all the parents out there who pressure their kids into giving them grandchildren.

[@adamkauffman9311]

@@shortattentionspangarage1312 I do. And no one should expect grandchildren. I think I like the idea of having grandchildren, but it's not my choice to make; it's my children's and their partners' decision.

[@jeng9927]

I don’t understand the idea that a woman without kids would “ have no stake” in her own country. Because she’s childless? These men literally do not see women as people.

[@zigzag4462]

I don’t understand the logic-the same people who will demand you have kids “for the sake of the country” will tell other people that “our country is too full already” and “we’re the party of freedom”. All those things can’t be true at the same time.

[@jeng9927]

@@zigzag4462 exactly. The mental gymnastics must be exhausting.

[@casjean8904]

and a year later it has gotten worse.😬

[@betsyveritas1055]

​@@zigzag4462That's true. Our U.S. population has doubled since 1970 & how is that going for us. It was way better in '70.

[@annmarieknapp]

They don't care about women. They want our free labor in the home, access to our wombs to carry and birth their kids, our money from our jobs, and access to our body as if it's a toy. Nope!!!

[@KB-og6ze]

I love Chelsea for speaking out on this topic. I had a hysterectomy at age 35 for medical reasons & feeling more self fulfilled each day. I can adopt someday if I make the choice but without kids, I can focus more on my relationship with my husband, focus on my self health (mentally & physically). I’ve just started my own thriving business and get to be my own boss. My life without kids has given me the chance to better my life, grow each day, give more to my community and I’m able to support my brother & sister who both have young kids and struggle on the daily with depression, financial issues, relationship issues and substance abuse. I am the middle child but both my siblings rely on me for guidance and advice. I wouldn’t be able to give them the support they are so worthy of, if I had children of my own. Anyone who is raging over this topic is too emotionally immature to handle hearing the truth that kids aren’t for everyone.

[@Renee302976]

My daughter is 21-years-old and she has made up her mind that she doesn’t want children either, her 2 cats are her children and I totally support her 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@professorsprout3382]

That's right my little dog and cat have so much drama between them I'm frigging exhausted and I do put off trips because they get really freaked out if I change any routine waiting for dog to tolerate long drives before I vacay.

[@tunenicesr9553]

VISIT THE ARKHAM MENTAL ASYLUM 🤦‍♂🤦‍♂

[@jrangel118]

I read "her 2 cats ate her children and I totally support her" the first time 😅

[@loreneseman2303]

no woman at twenty-one should be having kids. live your life, get an education, a career, buy a home, then decide in your thirties

[@stluanne]

I wish her every happiness and don't question her decision for a minute..... but. My daughter and SiL decided when they married at 22 that they would never have children. Then they hit 31 and all of a sudden their attitude did a 180 and my granddaughter is now 12. I am so glad neither of them did anything permanent to their reproductive capabilities at 22! Life is full of surprises.

[@rightwrightwriter]

“Don’t have a kid if you can’t afford one!” “Okay, cool.” “Why haven’t you had a kid?” “I can’t afford one. My savings keep getting wiped out because of recurring ‘once in a lifetime’ economic instability and medical costs. So, I’m not even considering it.” “You’re selfish!” Bruh.

[@erukaseven]

Lol right?! Or, gosh forbid, some is cognizant of their medical issues that can be passed down to said child.

[@cmdraftbrn]

"not only are you selfish. you're acting entitled too." -someone, who's business its not!

[@Xiph1980]

Yup, as if forcing this "Life" thing, with all its stress and responsibilities on someone who didn't ask for it, for your own personal satisfaction, somehow isn't selfish. I never understood that logic.

[@scottkrater2131]

If you wait to have kids until you can afford it, your never going to have one. You know what they say, and it's true, the more you make the more you spend.

[@1IGG]

It's literally the opposite of being selfish.

[@51Saffron]

Two of my sisters never wanted children and they are in their 40's now, and still don't want any, nor do their husbands. My brother wanted children, and had them, and so did I. Some people just don't like children, others like them but don't want to have them in their lives permanently, and others love their lives the way they are without children. It isn't anyone's business. My cousin had a vasectomy when he was 25, he is now 50 and has no regrets.

[@rowdybliss]

There’s a real dark side to pressuring people to have children. My mom used to stop and go baby-crazy whenever we were out in public and we’d pass someone with a baby, and I was absolutely disinterested, every time. I’ll never forget this as long as I live: we were at the mall and I guess I was about seven years old, and my mom stopped to ooooh and aaaah over a baby while I just stood there, and afterward, my mom looked at me like I was a cockroach and said “do you even WANT to have kids one day?” I thought for about five seconds and said, “nope.” She deadass looked down her nose at me and said “no man will ever marry you if you don’t want to have kids.” And thus began an entire childhood/adolescence of raising me to believe that I should put all my dreams and desires aside in order to do the greatest thing I could ever do, which was to find a man and have a family. I made horrible, really devastating choices to that end, until I finally went to therapy to undo that and rediscover who I really am. I will always stand by my decision to not have children and be my own person.

[@kateSullivan3927]

Well said.

[@bethanychatman9531]

I'm sorry you had to go through that and I'm also sorry your mother had such a narrow and sexist view of women. Some people are insanely insensitive and rude. Happy that you're happy!!

[@Ottophil]

Lots of us dudes want a girl who doesnt want kids.this mom sounds tarded

[@chefnelsonsbbq]

Not all men want children.... Sorry you had to hear that before you knew any better.

[@radschele1815]

I'm glad you never gave in to the pressure.

[@UKindness4]

I love her! Thank you for sticking up for women!

[@bringezk]

@@c-rod4634 yep! Ain't it wonderful?! 😁

[@JusDion]

Sticking up for women? society treats mother's like garbage why do you think women dont want to be mothers any more? There's no in incentive to be a mother.

[@Ljounieh]

​@@c-rod4634 hey more likely to become rich if childless and focused on a career, it's genius!

[@djspacevader8685]

@@Ljounieh so no pay gap? Which is it?

[@jedidiahcarmichael5747]

I've taken care of kids; nieces, nephews, and friend's kids. I have learned the BEST part of taking care of kids is giving them back to their parents. I don't want to live a life without that kind of joy.

[@dyutidutta]

People who pressure others into having kids can't bear to see them happy. They just want to drag everyone down with them. I've noticed that most of the people who are calling Chelsea 'miserable' (which she is evidently not) are the ones who have the least stake and are the least involved in childbirth and child-rearing aka men.

[@Vanilla_Addict]

this. right. here.

[@aaronroger3585]

Patriarchy here! As a father of 5, I can say childless adults are unnatural in all human society. Think about that

[@mariaquiet6211]

@@aaronroger3585 Seems weird how many people are compelled to scare, shame and otherwise pressure women into following their "natural" urges. Think about it - cause Aaron Roger said it...?

[@StellaJean1000]

@@aaronroger3585 they know what causes it now.

[@bimbodice624]

Honestly I tell people to have them because I think they are missing out on the greatest love one could feel. You assume it's out of a place of malice.

[@lastjob2011]

Years ago I was standing in line at Target, playing with the little two year old boy in front of me. His grandmother asked: "Do you have children?" "no." I replied. She said: "Oh it looks like you still have time." ( I was in my early 30s) I said "No - I don't want children." She pulled her grandson away, looked at me like I was an alien, and never spoke again. Wow. Checked by a complete stranger, in the check-out lane at Target!!

[@Tonyhouse1168]

There’s reasons the kid was in line with Grandma..

[@skfnv6340]

Relax, she was just jealous

[@MidnightMiik]

I absolutely refuse to have kids and I still like kids. We were all little once. That time of life happened. We should all be able to relate to it.

[@Berlynic]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 Oh, that person was an idiot. Plain and simple

[@ASAL2022]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@tinastaniscia9057]

My husband and I have four children, by choice. It's hard enough to be a parent when it's something you WANT. I would never, ever judge anyone if they chose to not have children. This goes for my own too. Under no circumstance do I need to be a grandparent. I've told them unless they can take care of them, don't have them. And it's okay. Love this so much!!! Thanks Chelsea.

[@lizbecker1677]

You sound like an awesome mom!

[@AyeCarumba221]

Yes, but even IF you can take care of four children, you are over-populating the planet. 8 billion people as of last November 15th. 20 billion expected in 77 years. Please stop for the sake of humanity.

[@lydias2012]

My favorite comment about finding out my husband and I did not want kids. "But who will take care of you when you are old?" Don't have kids unless you want them. Planned parenthood means planning to be a parent. Don't burden your grown children to be your caregivers, they have their own life and responsibilities including sometimes kids. And don't think they might put you in a home anyway. It might be the best choice and it might not.

[@Global_Enlightenment_Now_2060]

Agree ::::::::::::

[@Singer_and_Songwriter]

Right!!👏🏿

[@CanyonALynn]

Plus, I always thought: What's worse, seeing an elderly person who literally has no children to visit them... OR seeing an elderly person who has children who refuse to visit them?

[@ginnyp6689]

Talk about selfish! My husband and I are planning and saving for a time when we may need care. I would never put that burden on my two daughters. If they want to help, of course we will accept it with love. But if they can’t for any reason, we will have made other arrangements.

[@Beth-pf6oo]

Yep. I've heard that one...I tell them "The same people who will take care of you, the staff at the assisted living facility or nursing home." lol cuz that's where the majority of people in this country end up sadly.

[@sparkle3000]

It's child free, not childless.

[@maryb6328]

YES! I'm going to use that one. TY!

[@MariaBareiss]

​@maryb6328 It hits different, right???

[@stevesanzari7294]

Same Meaning !bottom Line didn’t have Kids !

[@jamielehman4934]

​@@stevesanzari7294 No it's different. ChildLESS implies that you're missing something important. ChildFREE implies that you are too important to throw your life away on children. I'm happily child-free 😁

[@HeatherR-yw9qk]

@@sparkle3000 Chelsea is a mom. Pregnancy 2x

[@CuteCatsofIstanbul]

Thank you Chelsea for being our voice! I'm a 45 year old woman from Turkey, I've always had very strong maternal feelings, but I never liked babies or children, the idea of having a child seems horrific to me. Then I realised I feel maternal towards non-human animals. I love our furry friends - from cats to pigs, from dogs to cows and horses, monkeys etc etc. They are life, they are love, they are everything.

[@biteofdog]

I hope you are well and your family in Turkey are safe. I feel incredible sadness to see the suffering the earthquake caused in Turkey and Syria.

[@Lionesse-z41553]

I'm exactly the same. I'm so sorry about the devastating earthquake. I truly hope that you are well and safe!

[@CuteCatsofIstanbul]

@@Lionesse-z41553 Thank you very much. Me and my family are doing as best as we can. Imagine 10 cities in your country being wiped out in the worst horrific way, knowing scientists had been warning for years... And it's not over either, Istanbul, Izmir and regions are all waiting for the next big earthquake. If you can, please make a donation to animal charities in Turkey as these precious beings are often forgotten. Thank you.

[@stephendise7946]

You are SICK.

[@suemenon9767]

Links?

[@LivN25]

I’m 41 and never once have I regretted not having kids. I hear from friends consistently “ITS SO HARD BEING A PARENT! I mean, don’t get me wrong, I love my kids, but….” We all have to pick our battles 😂

[@surlespasdondine]

Yes it can be hard but mostly wonderful. ❤

[@cuquee12]

Lol!!

[@bensenzo]

And people who say that keep having MORE chips 😅

[@charlesnavin4482]

Your friends are idiots. And how do you know it’s better without kids? I’m never eating sushi! I ate sushi, it’s awesome. If I never ate it I wouldn’t know.

[@WPS691]

@@surlespasdondine - These ladies will regret later on when it's too late

[@N59410]

The thing that kills me is people who are not even in my inner circle acting somehow robbed by my not having a kid. What exactly am I taking from you? You're a coworker with whom I chat with sometimes. If you love kids so much, just focus on yours. Thank you 🤗

[@angelcakes2385]

Yes I tell those people "get out of my uters".....

[@karenvanausdall5904]

I agree! It's far better to recognize that you don't want to have children than to have them and " not want" them!! This world is a hot mess ,I don't blame anyone for not wanting to bring a child up in it!!

[@nychellebrewer]

Honestly I think on some unconscious level these people are a) jealous of your freedoms, b) don't get to ask your advice about their parenting problems, and c) regret that they won't be able to bond with you over the miseries, anxieties, and also the relief of parenthood when things go okay. Being a parent can make a person face the worst at the core of themselves, and sometimes it helps to be able to share that with a coworker or some other random person, to make you feel less alone in the universe. However, it is incredibly rude to imply that someone who doesn't have children has made a mistake. It's not hard for parents to find parent friends and confidants for that part of their lives. But parenthood isn't all there is to anyone's life.

[@nychellebrewer]

@@jonathanmoody6631 As a mother of two, stepmother of one, I'm actually quite fond of Chelsea Handler.

[@networknomad5600]

@@nychellebrewer Chelsea Handler is garbage, and a testament to a dying society.

[@mastvideos6298]

Who's here after JD vance VP Nomination ?

[@juliannbrandt240]

JD Vance is a walking talking billboard for birth control.

[@MariaBareiss]

Shady Vans

[@layneannen]

72 yr old cat lady by choice here. No regrets! Vance is pathetic!!!

[@lorrie2878]

@@mastvideos6298 after it? Like going after it to make sure the whole ticket fails? Signed, crazy married mother grandmother and proud cat lady! Vote flipping BLUE! 💙💙💙🦾💙🦾😻

[@bon47ful]

Chelsea is fearless and hilarious.

[@deborahriley1166]

✊✊✊✊✊ My daughter doesn’t want children because she feels it irresponsible! There are so many children that don’t have a home, population is out of control, and she really doesn’t want them. I’m totally cool with her decision!! I have the very best grand Great Danes, kitties, chickens and geese to love. I feel it’s very responsible to not procreate!

[@clairjunior5291]

So true. It’s not about being selfish, it is more about being a super responsible citizen of the world by deep thinking the issue and making an informed decision and not just out of instinct. I bet some parents would not have kids if they could do it all over again.

[@raistlinmajere7149]

Its like I know myself and understand that I'm not mature or financially ready for kids so its better to wait or not have them at this time. It would be more selfish of me to raise kids when i'm not ready and make their loves more difficult.

[@denises9936]

I doubt most people would rather not have had their children. That’s so judgemental.

[@LC-sc3en]

@@denises9936 why they said "some" not "most"

[@victoriabaker4400]

Most parents won't say so because it's socially risky to do so, but yes, a lot of people fell into it, or fell for the social pressure, and if they are being honest or could relive their lives would make different choices.

[@darcy5761]

​@@denises9936Read the subreddit posts about people who wish they'd never had children.

[@theluschmaster]

LOL I love how people make having children an achievement. Like, you are nothing if you don't have children. People have their reasons why they don't want to have children and you can't force them as though you're going to help them raise the children!

[@jammzy2959]

It is an achievement if you want kids. If you don't want them then don't have them. Create your own achievements and let people have theirs...🤦🏾‍♀️

[@michaelmaps2004]

For me it would be the greatest achievement if i ever have kids because i want them badly

[@azurekutella3812]

A person achieving their goal has a reason to be proud, even if it is kids. But no one gets to decide what another person’s goals should be.

[@vailpcs4040]

Hot take for the GOP: You can't talk about loving freedom at the same time you are trying to legislate your preferred form of morality.

[@theluschmaster]

@Michael Maps Exactly, it's a main priority for you and that would be awesome for you to have as many children as you want because you would take great care of them. It's what you want. But you're doing it for you and not because other people feel like 'you're nothing without kids'.

[@curiousnerdkitteh]

We REALLY need more discussions on this topic, everywhere. Was just talking to a friend of mine who feels like there's something wrong with her for not wanting to get married and have children and feels an immense amount of social pressure to do it, including the "well-meaning" friends who try to matchmake her because she's at the ripe old age of 23/24 and unmarried. 🙄

[@veevs]

You're shamed no matter what you do (Have one? Many? None? The right amount for the criticizer but you don't parent correctly according to them?), so might as well do what's right for you.

[@vanessacolina]

This was such a great girl power moment! Love that she brought Julianna Margulies!

[@LadyMoonsparrow]

This was such a powerful show! I am so glad she spoke out about this, I am 64 years old never wanted children, never had children, never regretted it. I do have lots of rescued animals I take care of and love my Nieces and Nephews. It is so nice that this issue was brought up here. Thank you Chelsea Handler!

[@softtailgirl02]

Amen, sista-friend!!

[@damienmulder909]

Except there's a worldwide demographic problem. Keep patting yourselves on the back for making the human race go extinct.

[@softtailgirl02]

@@damienmulder909 I’m not sure what you mean. 🤷‍♀️ There are currently 8 BILLION people in the world. By 2050 the number is projected to be 9.7 BILLION. Global warming may end the world as we know it, but my choosing not to have children won’t.

[@sr.e.9136]

Preach, sista. The white race must be abolished!

[@heypaul7646]

Oh Carolyn, you poor woman.

[@drextrey]

Most of the pressure comes from government, they want a future tax payer. Don't let them. Chose your own life.

[@lawsattitude1999]

Ironic given most of the "child free" people are libs who want more taxes and such. Ya'll are such hypocrites.

[@darcy5761]

Corporations need more cheap uneducated labor.

[@tonis5140]

In elementary school in the 90s, I knew I didn't want children. My mother told me I'd change my mind. Never did though. Chelsea struck a chord with me. I passionately volunteer with and mentor children. And I am unapologetically pleased to travel wherever whenever I want. It's disappointing some find this selfish. Maybe it is on some level. Most often people lament that I'll die alone. Frankly, as an introvert, that sounds lovely and it sounds more selfish that you'd raise a child just so you might have someone there when you cease to exist. 🤷🏾‍♀️

[@taxusbaccata1154]

Yes, it is selfish. If a child isn't born, they're not going to know it anyway, so where's the selfishness in that?

[@noodle3218]

I don’t want children. At all whatsoever. One of the (many) reasons is because I can make a far bigger positive impact in the world without any children than I can having 1-2 humans take all my energy. So you’ve got it right, and you’re being non-selfish by being willing to help with other children even when they aren’t your “own” (And of course I have no need to judge parents for having kids as long as they try to be decent parents, I’m just confident in my decision not to. But people need to remember that parents certainly don’t have a monopoly on unselfishness and plenty of parents are downright selfish ex when they have kids only to carry on their genes, someone they can control, or to have someone to take care of them in old age

[@anonymoose116]

Maybe it's selfish, but so what? It's better to be selfish and not have children, then to have children you don't 1000% want. Go live your life for you. Absolutely nothing wrong with that.

[@catrivera7463]

@@anonymoose116 is definitely not selfish! There are so many moms that just got pregnant to get attention or get a man etc that’s being selfish!!! I applaud women who listen to themselves and not society. I always wanted to be a mom and I have two beautiful kids and I’m very happy..my daughter seems like she doesn’t want kids (she’s 12) and that’s ok with me whether she changes her mind or not, I just want her to be happy

[@powers1217]

@@anonymoose116 so many of the people in the red state I live in simply cannot fathom that fact.

[@victoriabaker4400]

When I was 11, back in the 1960s, I did some volunteering at a senior citizens' nursing home, would visit every couple of weeks. There was a couple there, whom I really connected with. She needed constant care, and he had moved into the home with her so that they could remain together. They were happy, joyful, joking around, and we had a lot of fun together. They were a strong contrast to most of the residents, who weren't joyful. Many of them would show me photos of their children or grandchildren and almost all of them said they didn't see them much, and quite a few had zero visits from any of them-- there were a lot of tears. I was actually horrified that so many people were so miserable in their older age. So I said to this couple, gently, you seem so happy compared with most everyone else here-- is it because you are here together? They gave each other a knowing look, and said, take a look around-- there are other couples here too, as unhappy as everyone else-- we think we have stayed happy because we chose to never have children. I told them that I didn't think I wanted any children, but that people kept telling me I would change my mind and that I would be very sorry if I didn't. They assured me that if I didn't want children, I would be far happier honoring that then having them to satisfy social pressure. Interestingly, when I remember them, they are in color in my memory, while everything else in that home is gray in my memory. 💯Then came 1970 and the first Earth Day and my 8th grade science teacher who was very concerned about the environment. I learned another big reason to not have children. Eventually I did find love with someone who also didn't want children, and we're happy together after almost 30 years. So yeah no, honor your own nature.

[@Sommers234]

Thank you for sharing that !

[@stilianifakidaraki3724]

Thanks for sharing. Inspiring!

[@patriciaa.tudosa2838]

Kudos to you. I've also come to the conclusion that most people pressure you to have kids precisely because they're miserable, and they need everyone else to be on the same wave length. While there are people who are wonderful parents and no doubt love it, not everyone is meant to be a parent.

[@user-sp6lf5mb4h]

@@patriciaa.tudosa2838 amen I love this so much thank you for sharing

[@damienmulder909]

Except there's a worldwide demographic problem. Keep patting yourselves on the back for making the human race go extinct.

[@kevinwatters358]

Most people who complain about others not having kids are miserable in their own lives for HAVING kids and they want everyone to go through the horror of having kids. My wife and I don't have kids and will NEVER have kids and I did have a person say something derogatory about it and I just laughed at them and said I will not be thinking of you while we are in Cabo.

[@naylas3908]

Not necessarily miserable. Many people see people who make different choices in life as a judgment on their choices.

[@edavid2557]

@@naylas3908 I think sometimes it may be that they regret having given in to choices that they were pressed on to make and others stood up to those choices

[@kevinwatters358]

@@naylas3908 They need to get over themselves as my life is my life and I don't do things based on other people's choices. If humans are such small minded creatures then perhaps humanity doesn't deserve to live.

[@SlimKeith11]

Those are the same people who want everyone else to be married as well, they are suspicious of anyone who is single. meanwhile, none of them look happy in their marriages, especially their spouses.

[@firstnamelastname7708]

@@naylas3908 I think you’re right about that. I’ve decided to not drink alcohol, and you wouldn’t believe the amount of people who take that personally.

[@kittypeach]

I was told as a teenager I probably wouldn't be able to have kids & was crushed, but resolved to live like Chelsea- being the greatest Aunt & living my best life! I was also shocked when I DID end up pregnant, & decided to have my son. It almost killed me; I was NOT supposed to have kids, but he's healthy as a tree now! Ppl still ask when I'm having another, despite my brush w/ death having the one & call me selfish for THAT! We just can't win...

[@charlesnavin4482]

Yer selfish.

[@stickman787]

thats very depressing and sad

[@mariaquiet6211]

@@stickman787 I'm so sorry that people who don't live according to your expectations make you sad. It must be hard living with that attitude. Hope you get help and grow as a person.

[@stickman787]

@@mariaquiet6211 k

[@powerfulpropertysolutionsw4384]

So true!!! People shaming because of FOMO!! Unless you're in a fundamentalist community, people stop shaming after 2.

[@magicworld3242]

My friend Susan works in a Nursing Home. She said 95% of the people living there. NEVER get a visit from their children.

[@zoradelaney9412]

I declared at age 17 that I would not have children. Everyone told me that it was "merely a phase" and whatnot. At age 52, I am still childfree! And as I look around at the foolishness seen in my community, NOT having a child was perhaps THE best decision that I have made in life thus far......

[@treintaydiez]

53 here. Same

[@iadesigns]

And since MANY women who have a child have more than 1, I as a mom of 1 constantly encounter other moms shaming me for only having 1 child. As if I'm doing my daughter a disservice for being an only child. I follow up by telling them she's not planning on having kids AT ALL (which is true) either....they always end up shocked and disgusted..I love it 😊

[@mwater_moon2865]

I had no problem being an only child, until we moved to rural area when I was 8 and there was no one to play with for miles from our house. As a child every one at school used to tell me I was so lucky for being an only, but I never felt lucky, I always thought THEY were lucky for having some one to play with ALL THE TIME. As an adult I've had more people comment about how sad it is that I have no "close" family, no aunts or uncles for my kids. But I've managed to stay close enough to my first cousins (both my parents came from big families) that I always have some one to visit at Christmas. And I've seen enough folks who's siblings are toxic and fights over caring for a dying parent that I'm kinda glad that won't be an issue for me. To be honest I think it's more a "grass is always greener on the other side" when you're a kid, and more of a "be like me" situation when you're older.

[@iadesigns]

@M water_moon exactly. My daughter wanted a sibling badly until about a year ago after she became a teen when she realized she'd rather have all of our attention for herself and not have the "big sister" role lol..can't say i blame her, her dad and I have siblings, we have our own issues with them which I'm sure she's picked up on. Sometimes, it's more peaceful and better for your mental health in the long run. Blood isn't always thicker than water. Having a *healthy* support system is what's important.

[@larenaissancegirl2568]

I know, it's crazy that people shame you for having "only one"! I have 1 daughter too and it's THE BEST! She's 3 and we are bonded like BFFs. Now whenever people say "Oh, is she your only?" I respond with "no, she's my everything." ;-)

[@ladyeowyn42]

One and done moms unite!

[@preciousjohnson1433]

U sure do gt shamed for having one kid. I have an aunt who asks me every time I talk to her if I am going to have another baby. My kid is seven yrs old he has autism. Having another child is the last thing on mine. If I want my to kid to be an only child on my side of the family tht is my right.

[@Evelyn_Okay]

I was at a dinner party and my coworker's wife asking if I was mom too (they have 4 kids). I said no. She looked shocked and asked if I was married. I said no, because I don't want to get married or kids. She started crying so hard, she had to excuse herself from the table. I was like, ma'am if you can afford it, please go talk to a therapist.

[@bensenzo]

So just because she can't close her legs she thinks every woman can't?😅

[@lorrainemcgrail6315]

She's having a tough time with those kids I guarantee it. People don't get upset over other people's life choices unless they are unhappy with their own.

[@AS-kf1ol]

@@lorrainemcgrail6315 or she's one of those people who didn't really have a reason to live before her husband and children. Some people are so deep into it bc they don't know what self-love feels like. They can't even imagine being happy without the role of wife and mother to validate their existence. Truly sad, I would've cried at the fact that she cried.

[@blueshoes915]

Soooo awkward! Yikes! Sorry you had that experience at a coworker’s house. Eek!

[@sengabrockerhoff5750]

I think you misunderstood. She was weeping out of envy 🤣🤣🤣

[@mrs.bosstoross4741]

I love Chelsea 😂 I have children and I have nothing but respect for the women who choose not to!! Rock on!!!!

[@adrijanakozic6058]

nobody cares if someone wants to have kids or not. What people with kids don't want is that child free people make crazy rules for their kids. Make sense acutely.

[@megante2012]

I was a single mother and it was hard. After my children got old enough they moved far away and got busy with their own lives and I never hear from them. So I’ve been all alone for years and I’m totally enjoying it. Do what you want. Be happy.

[@sallyhemings2295]

You never hear from your kids? 😢

[@hanzbrixx]

Maybe you shouldn't have kicked their father out.

[@nl201]

@@hanzbrixx you hate people who don't want babies. you blame single mothers with kids. You're just a Troll😊

[@PassionPno]

@@hanzbrixxHow did you know that she kicked the father out? Could be the father who abandoned them. Or the father could have died from some serious illness or accident.

[@tyra136]

U must have been a bad mum to them 😮

[@kellypollock]

What's the best part of other peoples kids? Watching them leave, every time.

[@1IGG]

To be fair, it's a different if kids are your own or not. But I respect your opinion. "kids are like farts, only your own are tolerable."

[@TheRealRedFlashlight]

Child free here. But I absolutely love some of the kids in my life! Looking forward to watching them learn and grow. But yeah, some people made poor decisions when they had children, and it shows. People who do nothing to teach their kids how to be respectful in public, just want everyone to share their pain. Try not having kids until you're ready, please.

[@Lia-A-Eastwood]

As Ricky Gervais had once put it: "Why is it selfish to not have children? It's not that we're running out of it. There are millions!" -- I do not ask moms why they do have chlidren, so I don't want them to pester me why I don't have children. It's none of their business. It's my personal choice. Period.

[@Number1Camper]

It’s pretty selfish that two other people selflessly worked their butts off their entire life just for your benefit but you refuse to pay that forward, and live your life dedicated to yourself

[@mariaquiet6211]

@@Number1Camper how would you know? I have loved ones, I'm there for them. I don't have to spend my time on resources for someone I deliberately created and that's why I can be a friend. There's a world outside your presumptions.

[@Number1Camper]

@@mariaquiet6211 there are definitely exceptions. Most parents do all that plus dedicated all their resources to their kids

[@mariaquiet6211]

@@Number1Camper just got to drag others down, don't you? How special.

[@Number1Camper]

@@mariaquiet6211 that’s a fair point and I should be more sensitive and mind my own business

[@chesterwilberforce9832]

I have 4 adult children, two of them in long term relationships. None of them want to marry and none of them want to have kids, and I don't blame them. My dad used to say "There are plenty of people in the world."

[@joannalareau7421]

Motion for Samantha Bee and Chelsea Handler to have a show together, please please please comedy goddesses do us a solid

[@MISNM0]

👏

[@rowdybliss]

I second this motion, time to take a vote!!

[@NubaNarmer]

Yeeeeeeeeeesss !!

[@deniseg812]

That would be great!

[@loreneseman2303]

and amy schumer with lots of female comedian guests

[@dharmakaurkhalsa3923]

Chelsea is perfect to step in for women's rights (just like Desy).

[@elhoward7440]

The problem is that Chelsea's comedy persona it pretty close to Desi's, so having them on the same shows is kind of redundant. Of course, the same could be said of Leslie Jones and Dulce Sloan, and they worked great together.

[@yourboymalikcoleman8731]

Facts

[@1IGG]

@@elhoward7440 I disagree. They are distinct from each other. I would like having both on the show.

[@RaeLarz]

THANK YOU CHELSEA! I've never wanted kids. Just turned 26. People expect I will change my mind. Yet, I know myself... and there are so many other ways I want to benefit people, society, and the world. I'll be able to do so without kids. To those that do want kids, by all means, I respect you. But the respect needs to go both ways. It'd be SELFISH to the CHILD to have a kid you don't want.

[@penguinz1987]

When people try to shame you about not having kids saying that it's a selfish decision, they're reasoning is always "well who's going to take care of you when you're old?" that's a helluva lot more selfish. You don't have kids JUST to serve YOU later in life.

[@malkneil]

I never understood how not bringing more people into a massively overcrowded planet could be regarded as selfish. One alternative theory is that it might reveal a bit of jealousy in a person who maybe wishes they had a bit more free time and is a bit frustrated having to deal with kids nonstop.

[@AliceP.]

Ditto. I really, honestly, no joke - don't understand what do people mean when they say that.

[@clove8763]

Translation: They're JEALOUS!!! #ChildFREEANDLOVINIt

[@victoriabaker4400]

Absolutely.

[@AyeCarumba221]

People who add more children to the planet are actually the selfish ones.

[@skarbuskreska]

The problem is we don't take the whole world population and mix and distribute them to places. Aging and childless societies do simply suffer, as you cannot run the same society on less people. Being open to huge immigration would help, but people usually don't want that, and frankly it does definitely change the existing culture. We had just refugees in the refugee crisis and many people here in Germany went absolutely nuts, even dismissing domocracy for that matter and voting for right parties. Now, in numbers, we would need this kind of ammount of poeple nearly every 2-3 years to run our society the same way as it is now. Every year around 500.000 -1.000.000 people would be needed. Since we don't do this, we are already facing the biggest crisis right now when it comes to workers as the boomers end their work life. Still, while rationally knowing that, I would NEVER press a woman to have kids. Because "the Germans die out", the right wing party had basically counted that every (German) woman should have 4 kids. I had 2 and instantly knew here is my red line, no more kids for me. That was simply my threshold. And just as I knew that, some woman simply have their threshold at 0 and that perfectly ok.

[@baronesselsavonfreytag-lor1134]

When I was 18 doing humanitarian work in a war zone where children were routinely orphaned due to floods and faced predatory adults, I decided that if I was in a stable relationship I might adopt but I wasn't going to bring an extra human into a world that already needs mothers for existing children. It didn't work out that way. I have been an amazing aunt. I made a vow when my parents passed away that I would always stand in the gap concerning their grandchildren, and to pay forward what my aunts did for me. My niece just teared up on my birthday and thanked me for being a positive influence in her life, and now profoundly influential in her children's lives.

[@agnosticsister]

🧡🧡

[@sr.e.9136]

I'm so sorry.

[@rjkore5229]

As a fellow Auntie of influence I agree💪💪

[@DonesdeMotivacion]

Can you be my kid’s aunt? Please remember to put them in your will too

[@markcnut17]

Cope

[@marcoescuandolas]

If we're going to be real here... Having kids is the most selfish thing you can do for the world. They didn't ask to be here. None of us did.

[@philippebrehier7386]

Yup.

[@what8562]

You have a choice, don't you? I assume you are an adult.

[@tanyaroberts5726]

Its been nothing but a struggle for me being here, thats for sure

[@Buttercup697]

@@what8562 you had a choice to be born? how'd you manage that?

[@what8562]

@@Buttercup697 Again. Assuming you are an adult and competent, you have a choice either or not to continue living. But if you are typing with your toes being physically restrained, type 5 commas in a row. Then your case is an exception.

[@lucindareinas2320]

I am 66 years old and chose not to have kids in my teens. I couldn't have made a better decision for me.

[@TheRealTrueCrimeAnalyst]

If you think me not having children is selfish, imagine how selfish it would be if I locked myself in a room away from the children to pursue my real interests. 😂

[@lastnamefirstname8843]

By “real interests” do you mean doing a true crime podcast nobody listens to?

[@TheRealTrueCrimeAnalyst]

@@lastnamefirstname8843 Sounds amazing! 🤣

[@lastnamefirstname8843]

@@TheRealTrueCrimeAnalyst I mean you’re lying to yourself if you say that’ll be as fulfilling as raising a child.

[@Ann-snowshoeingonEnceladus]

lastnamefirstname8843 You're wrong; raising children is neither the sole nor ultimate means of achieving fulfillment. History is full of people who never had them and were perfectly satisfied with their lives, as well as people who had children and wished they hadn't. Not everyone fits your narrow version of what brings contentment.

[@TheRealTrueCrimeAnalyst]

@@Ann-snowshoeingonEnceladus It’s so interesting to me that there are people in the world who earnestly believe their own preferences apply to everyone else. You almost hate to ruin for them; seems cruel. 😂

[@LynnseyCTheReviewQueen]

I'm a mom of two and I honestly don't care if other people don't have kids. Their decision not to have kids doesn't affect my choice to have kids and my choice shouldn't affect them either if they don't want youngins. For every person that doesn't want kids, there is someone that does want them. Not to mention, I think it's safe to say that there are some people out there that who should not be parents.

[@deadartist8827]

You didn't care, no one cares. She is the one always talking about because obviously she sad and alone trying to convince herself.

[@goldflo91]

@@deadartist8827 There are actually people who are sad and lonely while being married and having lots of children to feed 😉

[@goldflo91]

"There are some people out there who should not be parents" : indeed, starting with those who let their kids all day in front of the TV or their phone 😉 People who can't make ends meet shouldn't be forced to have kids either. If you can't eat correctly, how can you feed your kids ? Who will pay for their school, health, studies, clothing ?

[@user-sp6lf5mb4h]

I think that the majority of parents shouldn’t be parents … look at how messed up society is rn .. so many parents failed and are failing to produce decent human beings… if your doing/done it right congratulations but that’s not the majority. Unfortunately we live in a society that shaming child free women is acceptable but don’t you dare shame a mom they are “doing the best they can” .. acting like they were forced into the position of motherhood and are coping .. it was a choice so do it right.

[@goldflo91]

@@user-sp6lf5mb4h Exactly, only those who are ready to do it right raising children should be allowed to have descendants, the others should focus on themselves instead, or fix their issues before they're given the right to raise a family It should be the same about marriage: only those who can make it right should be allowed to, that would prevent most of the domestic violence

[@RazorFoxDV]

This was perfect! There was a time when I wanted to have kids but the lack of a partner put the kibosh on that. My goal was to have three kids and to have them all by the time I was 35. Well, 35 came and went and I was quite disappointed at the time, but now that I've seen friends and acquaintances have kids and how much freedom and disposable income I have while they're tied down and pinching every penny due to current child-rearing costs (food, clothing, shelter, medical, etc.) and future costs (college!), I like to think that I dodged a bullet. I respect them for the work that they do and support them whichever way I can but I now don't regret the path my life took for one second!

[@roberti8116]

im with you. i got one life and i want it to get easier not harder.

[@avigutierrez8948]

I came to comment on that gotta say you’re right I mean I’m in my mid thirties and pretty much I haven’t got much of a life so I’ll except it😏🥂

[@agnosticsister]

💯💯

[@rjkore5229]

Understand you sweetie...I did find my husband before 35 but he really wasnt father material so the babies never came & divorce did...was not having kids without the best life partner... dont regret that at all... 💪💪

[@lastnamefirstname8843]

I think the definition of late stage capitalism is valuing disposable income over relationships.

[@LEbackstage]

As a kid and teen, I always wanted to have at least 3 children. Then I got older, moved out, and went to college and started living my life independently from my family. That was when I realised what it would take to raise a child and that I'm not willing to do this if I'm not 100% behind this. My viewpoint was even more shaped when a few friends started having kids. Making the decision to bring a tiny human into this world needs to be a choice (from my standpoint). And I know, I'd make this choice half-heartedly. I love children but only for a couple of hours a week. I like being the aunt and part of the village for my friends. And I love my life without children of my own.

[@KaceyAiram]

Exactly! It shouldn't be the "default" to have kids but a well thought out choice if possible

[@mutteringcrone1210]

I answered the question about whether I had kids with a huge smile. It's hard to work up the nerve to lecture me when faced with unrepentant joy. Weirdly, no one gave my husband any guff about his unfulfilled childless life, either.

[@darcy5761]

Yeah no one screams at or tries to shame a man who doesn't want kids. Women are saying no to domestic slavery and men are losing their slaves.

[@batgurrl]

Chelsea was awesome here and on point. I’m 63, never wanted kids (I was married to a like minded man for years). Yes, some people, especially with children think I’m some sort of freak, but I’m not. ☮️

[@AyeCarumba221]

When I hear somebody say that childless people are “selfish” I just wanna smash their face in. People who bring children into the world are actually the selfish ones. What damages the environment more than each additional human???? Bless anybody who does not breed!

[@cpirtle]

Eww.

[@christine1373]

I was 32 and my future husband was 43 when we met. He was divorced with two teenage boys and had a vasectomy. I’d had endometriosis all my life which means I experienced drug free contractions for hours every month. We talked about it and I admitted that I wasn’t sure if I wanted children. I’d never had that deep need that women have so we decided no. I wouldn’t have been able to get pregnant with the endometriosis. Do I have regrets? No. I don’t live with regrets.

[@abigaillabar8877]

Love you girl, I'm a teacher who focuses kinder age but I DO NOT WANT KIDS

[@julie473]

Thanks for covering this. I'm 47 and soooooo many people thinks its ok to shame us and ask intimate questions that they should keep to themselves!

[@j.august2573]

In my stand-up, I have an isolated line of, "It's important to have kids... after your real dreams have died" and parents laugh way way more than non-parents. It's like they know.

[@surlespasdondine]

I am a mom and I don't agree with that statement. Might be true for others too.

[@anonymoose116]

@surlespasdondine if you're a mom that hasn't made serious sacrifice over the years, you're doing it wrong. I'm a mom of 4, and while I'm still pursuing my dreams, it has taken me FAR longer and its much more difficult with kids in the picture. I love my kids, but let's not sugar coat reality here.

[@Materva_]

She is so smart and likable. People are just jealous and projecting anger because they made a mistake and have no free time.

[@Vanilla_Addict]

this.

[@WPS691]

BS. Kids are awesome and I'm glad losers don't procreate - don't need more losers in this world.

[@shahriarahmedtonmoy8462]

likable? your 2 braincells left the chat..

[@PaolaLaborda]

Why do we always have to give so many excuses? You don't need excuses. You don't want children. Period. It is so sad this kind of video is still so much needed. These kinds of videos never make me feel empowered or whatever word you want to use, they only make me feel sad, sad about how wrong ..everything is. Anyways, Chelsea was fantastic here, congrats.

[@heristyono4755]

Having no child isn't half as bad as having Tucker Carlson as a son.

[@nilsanieves3457]

😂😂😂😂

[@MonkeyJedi99]

Regarding that interview with the fat Republican dude, he seems to forget that one of the leading oppressors of women in HIS party is unmarried and childless as well. Yep, Lindsey Graham.

[@sobreezymimi7622]

Righteous comment yessss

[@abigailandino6251]

😂😂😂😂

[@jamesbowen2105]

👏👏👏 Lol

[@ih8kit]

Tom Arnold said it perfectly in the movie "True Lies". Ten seconds of joy, thirty years of misery. I am a man and I decided long ago I did not want children. The best decision I have ever made in my life. To all the parents out there, I respect your decision and wish you all the best. All I ask in return is you respect my decision. One last thing, you're awesome Chelsea!

[@AM-bw7hv]

I feel the same way Chelsea. I chose not to have children because I'm not selfish and I know how difficult they are. I teach kids. I see how bad parenting has become a contiguous disease.

[@charlesnavin4482]

Wrong. No counterpoint, just wrong.

[@teachmotivaterepeat9712]

A teacher here. Can't agree more!!!

[@maximluiza]

I'm a teacher too. I think this profession is possibly the best antidote to the instinctive need to have children 😂

[@mookie756]

My wife and I are childless. It's simple for us: we would rather "regret" not having a child than regret having one. There are so many people that arguably should not be parents because they secretly dislike/resent their kids.

[@branchofthevine779]

Arguably…secret is just your wishful thinking. Yes, you are missing out but no need to opine for your loss, move on!

[@mookie756]

@branchofthevine779 I wouldn't wish for that for any child. I've witnessed it, though. My opinion is no less worthy of being voiced than any other. And I think the truly wishful thinking is that I'm wrong and everyone values every child that's brought into the world. We all know that's not true.

[@SilVia-hs2kb]

@@branchofthevine779 You are definitely the parent that wants compliments and recognition for doing what billions of others have done, LOL i know people like you, and i feel sorry for you and for your offspring. You are the type of parent a person will spent an entire adult life trying to undo the damage you did. But in your spare time, you lash at others for not wanting to do the same. 🤡

[@branchofthevine779]

@@SilVia-hs2kb I speak Truth and sometimes Truth hurts feelings but ultimately is for listeners betterment. Without Truth there is permanent death on the Last Day.

[@riversong4204]

@@branchofthevine779 Your projection is pathetically obvious.

[@_JanetLouise]

Yes! Child Free women should be honored, admired and thanked.

[@maryrosekent8223]

Thank you, I appreciate that. And thank you, as well!

[@bjoardar]

That taking it a bit too far. Don't believe me? Tell that to Japan and South Korea ... How about "mutual respect"? I'm down for that.

[@deborahwolff5651]

Thank you

[@user-sp6lf5mb4h]

Im so overjoyed to see all these women in comments like me 🥰

[@mikejames1882]

No, they should be mocked, shamed, or completely ignored entirely

[@kcgilford518]

"I love this country, it's where all of my things are" is the most patriotic thing I've ever heard. 😅

[@MysticCrossroads]

Its certainly the most American 😂

[@goldflo91]

The most honest 😀

[@asraiSOA]

Get out more.

[@kcgilford518]

@@asraiSOA Get lost

[@asraiSOA]

@@kcgilford518 Nah. Go f'k off and take a seat kiddo.

[@seantlewis376]

Both of my daughters have decided to not have children. I really appreciate how you address the cultural issues surrounding the stigma. My girls are happy with their lives, and there is nothing more I would want for them than that. Rock on!

[@sogol8761]

"Happiness" as a life goal is unbelievably vapid and shallow. Would you trade your daughters for extra disposable income and the ability to go out at night more? Absolutely a joke and a lie, and you know it. Cope harder!

[@antun88]

Both? Why? That's sad.

[@mathisnotforthefaintofheart]

@@antun88 Well, the state of affairs in the US isn't that great for young women anymore. And if Sean is ok with it, what's the problem?

[@antun88]

@@mathisnotforthefaintofheart I just stated that's sad. Isn't a problem but it is sad, kind of. But what's so bad for women in US?

[@mathisnotforthefaintofheart]

@@antun88 That their reproductive rights are being taken away left and right. That the Party of "small" government wants to control family affairs. That they think that Christianity is the default religion by which the government should govern. Except I am not christian. The US is so overrated, especially if you are a woman.

[@caronstout354]

I'm over 60 and get the strangest reactions when I tell someone that I never married or had children...after helping, from age 17 to 45, my mother raise a child because the father didn't want to be in their life.

[@Mrs.Deanna_Ember]

Im 38 and basically in the same position, I helped family and babysat siblings, nephews, nieces, etc for most my life that at this age I prefer a break from having to repeat that process all over again..

[@patrickdupiton8953]

Just don't have them who cares

[@Mrs.Deanna_Ember]

@@patrickdupiton8953 well duh, thats her point 🙄

[@barbaracollins385]

Me too Chelsea. I knew early on motherhood was not for me. I'm 67 now and NEVER regretted it. I admit I am selfish. I didn't want to be responsible for another human being. If the kid grew up bad, I'd wonder all my life what I did wrong. My nieces and nephew are all I need. They don't even speak to their mother. So no, not for me.

[@branchofthevine779]

And you will be rightly judged in your selfishness and you can blame no one but yourself.

[@Vanilla_Addict]

@@branchofthevine779 get some help buddy

[@branchofthevine779]

@@Vanilla_Addict I have the Helper in me, do you? The clock of life is ticking…

[@mansishukla6779]

You're not selfish. Just self aware.

[@Vanilla_Addict]

@@branchofthevine779 my helping has to do with me not helping overpopulate an already overpopulated earth. also not bringing anyone into existence so that they will just inevitably suffer and work nonstop slaving their life away to capitalism, living in what is basically indentured servitude, and then eventually dying. Not to mention that due to climate change and pollution, your children that you speak so highly of, will not have a habitable planet to live on in several decades. I wonder how they will overcome that obstacle. There is more to life than to mindlessly procreate never considering the consequences of your actions. if life is suffering which it undoubtedly is procreation is a matter of morals; being completely unethical. Any and Every reason to have a child is selfish, but people like you can't think outside of the absurd religious box you have created for yourself. learn to think for yourself and question things meaning everything that you have been taught and everything that you think you know. Until you can let go of those limiting frames of mind you will never live up to any true potential.

[@vestcoat]

Childfree By Choice: I knew at 14 that I never wanted to have kids and I am now 69 and have no regrets with my decision. Part of my reasoning, but certainly not all of it, was NOT selfish….even back then I could see that the population was growing so fast and I considered the state of the planet and how overpopulation was going to affect it. I agree with the other commenters about children needing to be adopted and that was always an option for me if I ever changed my mind. It’s always been my body and my choice….no matter what ANYBODY else thinks or says.

[@nicolefeliciani8358]

i love when people say “having a child(ren) made me/us better people.” No it didn’t. 😂

[@naylas3908]

That depends on how you raise them. If you constantly let others raise them, then no. If you raise them yourself though, then yes, because it teaches you to constantly put others’ needs above yours.

[@what8562]

Any person you came to know may make you a better person. You grandmother may make you a better person. Or not

[@theresahoffman7444]

I'm 54 and never had children. One of my cousins told me, "It makes sense since you were not fun as a child". What? Then my youngest sister told me, "You will never understand what love is". Seriously? What they failed to understand is that some women don't have a choice. I couldn't get pregnant and I knew from a young age that I would never be the person who subjects herself to IVF or would adopt. If it really was of importance to me, I would have tried either but I accepted the fact that I would never have my own child.

[@cobraofearth]

Ha your sis just wants you to suffer like she had to! JK But really, I think people are so fixated on taking the next steps in life. Turns out you can decide what those steps are! I wish more people could realize they have more options than they think.

[@thehoboman]

They sound jealous.

[@DonesdeMotivacion]

That’s why a 54 yo it’s in social media… you know, nothing else to do in life

[@cobraofearth]

@@DonesdeMotivacion do you not see the irony of that statement?

[@mariaquiet6211]

I hate that one the most. I've risked life and limb for my loved ones. I know what love is.

[@UrSongMyPassion]

Life is hard for everyone. Let women live. Children are a lot of work

[@poohsh100]

I have a son and I had him when I was 28 yo. I decided not to have any more children because I see myself getting through those initial, difficult years of raising a child and now I can finally do things for myself, follow my passion, fulfil my dreams i.e. live for myself. Some people may call that selfish as well. I'm constantly being told to have another child as I need to give my son a sibling for playing, to learn sharing, being a kind person and have someone to call as family when we (his parents) are no more in this world. But that's enough for me for thinking about what society wants from me, what my husband wants from me or what my son wants from me. I stick to my decision and won't have another child as I finally feel very clear in my thoughts. I respect (maybe envy) women who don't have children as it's a difficult decision to make given the society pressure and judgment. However, treating oneself superior for being child-free is absolutely no-no. Respect should be mutual - no matter what one's life choices are. If my situation was different and I would have really given a serious thought about this life changing decision of having a child, I would have chosen to stay child-free too.

[@bimbodice624]

Great mother. Have a kid and say you wish he wasn't born. I feel sorry for him.

[@ponypony1]

Friends and family shame me because I had my kids old. I was 27 when I had my first baby and 32 my second baby. Not planning on having more.

[@poohsh100]

@@bimbodice624 I DIDNOT say I wish he wasn't born. That's what YOU assumed by reading my comment. I don't need appreciation or award or slandering from anyone to tell me if I am a great mother or not. I love my child and give my best as a mother and as a best friend for my child. I don't need to prove this to anyone.

[@poohsh100]

@@ponypony1 exactly, people shame people for everything. What most of them fail to understand is everyone is different and everyone has the right to lead their lives the way they want to live

[@mariaquiet6211]

@@poohsh100 the amateur psychologists in the comments are attacking moms as well as non-moms. They seem like happy people.

[@lindseymarie7565]

As a childless Millennial woman, I appreciate this so much!!!! So many people in my life don’t understand that I value my own happiness over anything else (as should anyone!!) and I would not be happy being a mother. I am a proud auntie to my siblings’ and friends’ kids but I am so relieved to go home to my quiet house with my dogs at the end of the day. I’ve never met a happier demographic than childless woman!!!

[@victoriabaker4400]

I'm now 66 and childfree by choice. I like the term "childfree by choice" because "childless" feeds the narrative that there is a deficit.

[@lucindabutler7820]

Exactly !! Truth is refreshing to me. I love that woman can make a choice to not have children. It is called freedom !!

[@catrivera7463]

I agree with you! But I am a mother and I am very happy too! So I believe that as long as we make our own choices we will be happy..those women who are mothers and are not happy there’s a deeper reason for it other than is because they’re moms

[@pamsmith7369]

I’m also 68 and never regretted not having had kids. I hear it all from I don’t know what I’m missing to I’m selfish for not wanting them. They act like it’s written in stone! I did a survey and 90% of my friends DON’T have kids! And the ones that do are either struggling as single parents or regretting having had them because they can be trouble! It puts you behind the eight ball right away because kids are SO EXPENSIVE! If I say I’m financially fit, the ones with kids say ’well you didn’t have kids’! Exactly!

[@danbam465]

🤣 🤣 🤣

[@deborahsmith7970]

Yes. She needs her own show. Please.

[@viperaaspis]

Yes. This one!

[@PoliticalGamer420]

Again 😁

[@yourboymalikcoleman8731]

Facts

[@2EKgn16]

She already did, on "E!" network

[@Tracy-zj4sr]

I like kids, and have very deep respect for mothers. Raising a child, and certainly more than one, is THE hardest job, in my opinion. And to do it well is even harder. I don’t have kids -very much by choice- and have not regretted that decision for one day. For me, having kids was just too low on the priority list, and ruled out too many of the other things I wanted to do and accomplish to make my final list. HAPPILY CHILD FREE HERE!

[@Tracy-zj4sr]

P.S. I also chose not to marry. Ha! Love men, and have very long term relationships, I just never felt the need to enter into some legally binding contractual relationship with any one of them. It has worked perfectly...for me.

[@starchb0mb]

Next time someone feels sorry for me or shames me for not wanting kids, I'ma send them this clip. My life is perfectly fulfilling (and also happier) without the burden of motherhood, thank you very much!

[@Boaz833]

I have always wanted kids more than anything else in the world. But life did not turn out that way for me. But I have many nephews and nieces and I love them all as if they were my own. Just because u don't want kids doesn't mean u can't still love them and be a great influence to them.

[@dee_dee_place]

I despise kids! So why would I want to love kids & be a great influence on kids? If I never saw (or heard) another kid, for the rest of my life, I would be ecstatic.

[@Boaz833]

@Dee Dee so your despised urself when u were a kid? That's very tragic that u had such a miserable childhood of self hatred and self contempt. I hope you got some help for yourself.

[@Boaz833]

@Dee Dee also, it's even more tragic that your parents did not feel the same way about u, or maybe they did and were still foolish enough to have u. What were they thinking?

[@dee_dee_place]

@@Boaz833 You know what you can do with your opinions! People like you have kids like rabbits & then ignore them or worse yet, parade them around on TikToks & Instagram so that you can profit off them & live a life you couldn't afford otherwise.

[@Boaz833]

@Dee Dee I think I made it clear I don't have kids. And I have lots of nephews and nieces and none of them are on tiktok. They are in school or college becoming doctors or lawyers or engineers. What kind of hilbily family are u from that you believe such nonsense about parents and kids and that it applies the same to everyone?