I completely agree, and that falls in line with everything that had led to me changing my former tune.

Not that I'm a father yet myself, but I think developing at least some appreciation and understanding of it is a good part of the process. Maybe having given it some serious thought ahead of time will prepare me better for when I find myself actually becoming a father.

It's sad to see some of my friends who are very much well off and in healthy long-term relationships write off and reject the idea so thoroughly and adamantly. I used to think maybe it was just a phase a person had to enter into, based on age and experience, but now I'm not so sure that's the common case.