Question
Dear Gramps,
I just read a very long answer from you to someone about birth control, quoting several leaders, prophets, etc. Could you find the quotation that says that women should have as many children as she can mentally, emotionally and physically handle? I know I have heard that. I find it very disturbing when a someone is called wicked for using birth control, when no one (except Heavenly Father) knows the exact situation. I think “lumping” everyone in the same category can be devastating to someone who truly feels inspired to stop having children (like say a sister who is 45, with 10 children) Where does personal revelation become enough on this matter? I am not trying to be contentious, I really want to know.
Suzan
Answer
Dear Suzan,
Let me quote directly from lds.org:
“Those who are physically able have the blessing, joy, and obligation to bear children and to raise a family. This blessing should not be postponed for selfish reasons.
Husband and wife are encouraged to pray and counsel together as they plan their families. Issues to consider include the physical and mental health of the mother and father and their capacity to provide the basic necessities of life for their children. This blessing should not be postponed for selfish reasons.”
The decision to have children is a very personal one. As lds.org suggests, husband and wife should pray and counsel together. If the decision is made because of selfish reasons it is against what our Heavenly Father wishes for us. But there are many couples because of mental, physical and yes sometimes financial reasons can not bring children into the world.
Gramps
