Core Perspective - The article explores the emotional and experiential reasons behind the decision to have children, contrasting it with a rational analysis of the costs and benefits of parenthood [1][21]. Group 1: Childhood Experience - Childhood is described as a unique privilege that allows for carefree exploration and self-expression, which many adults may have missed out on [2][3]. - The author reflects on how observing their children provides an opportunity to re-experience the joys and innocence of childhood [5][17]. Group 2: Love and Relationships - Children teach the author about love, emphasizing that love is about sharing joy and understanding each other's feelings [8][14]. - The article highlights the transformative power of love that children bring into the author's life, allowing for a deeper emotional connection [6][10]. Group 3: Personal Growth and Freedom - The experience of motherhood leads to a sense of personal freedom and self-acceptance, contrasting societal pressures regarding body image [16][18]. - The author suggests that having children can lead to an internal growth that compensates for external limitations, emphasizing that freedom is more of an internal state than an external condition [19][20]. Group 4: The Complexity of Parenthood - The decision to have children is portrayed as a deeply personal and non-rational choice, influenced by individual experiences and emotions [22]. - The article discusses the duality of freedom and responsibility that comes with parenthood, highlighting the courage required for both having and not having children [21].

Core Viewpoint - Alex, a feminist and mother, openly discusses gender and motherhood, advocating for women's rights and the importance of recognizing the challenges of motherhood [2][3][49]. Group 1: Personal Journey and Motherhood - Alex shares her transformation from a career-focused individual to a dedicated mother, documenting her experiences on social media [3][15]. - She emphasizes the effort required for women to become mothers and the importance of maintaining independence while raising children [3][49]. - The discussions around motherhood have evolved, with increasing awareness of the trauma and challenges women face in relation to childbirth and parenting [3][49]. Group 2: Gender Identity and Parenting - Alex encourages her son, Cai Juan, to express himself freely, including wearing skirts, challenging traditional gender norms [4][6]. - She observes that despite her efforts to promote a non-binary understanding of gender, societal influences can lead children to conform to traditional gender roles [11][12]. - Alex reflects on the complexities of gender identity development in children, noting that individual differences play a significant role [10][12]. Group 3: Family Dynamics and Support - Alex describes her partnership with her husband, who actively participates in parenting, allowing her to maintain her identity while managing family responsibilities [52][54]. - The couple navigates parenting challenges together, often leading to disagreements, but they have established a system that respects each other's methods [54][55]. - Alex acknowledges the emotional toll of parenting, especially with the arrival of a second child, and the need for patience and understanding in family dynamics [21][23][55]. Group 4: Balancing Personal Life and Motherhood - Alex manages her time efficiently, balancing work, exercise, and family life, demonstrating the challenges of being a working mother [15][26]. - She reflects on the changes in her identity and lifestyle since becoming a mother, finding joy in her current life despite the challenges [55][56]. - The narrative highlights the importance of self-care and maintaining personal interests while fulfilling the role of a mother [51][56].