We are a homeschooling family and have been blessed with six children. (We have also miscarried 4 children.) We have heard all types of unasked for comments about our family size, and the ones said in front of the children are the ones that hurt the most.

So I have learned to give a response that seems to enlighten most people who feel free to give me their honest response about how many children we have. For instance, I let them know how much FUN it is to be in our family. Or how there is always someone to play with or to do something with. Or I'll share with them the latest funniest conversation I've had with our thrwee-year-old or how our five-year-old can beat his Dad in chess. I just sing all the praises I can about the enjoyment and fulfillment and the honor I feel about having these little ones who I feel privilege to be with each day.

Lately when I've been asked, "Are you having any more?" I share how my husband and I are grieving the fact that my gift of fertility is coming to an end. We actually had a family member say that we "should have stopped (having children) awhile ago." My husband and I wish we could have responded to this comment with "And could you point out which of our children we should have not had?" I have seen with time, that some of these family and friends who have said these hurtful comments, do realize how "joy-filled" life can be with the children.

Just focus on thanking God for your children, let them bring you joy. Thank Him for the wisdom that you possess, in which you realize they are such a blessing and continue to pray for those in your life who don't see children in this light.

— R.P.