Lauren Smith

Those of us who make a conscious choice to be childfree endure many insensitive comments, such as (but definitely not limited to), “You’ll change your mind,” or “But that’s your life purpose!” However, stating that your life had no meaning before children has to be the most insulting.

Today, I see women of all shapes unapologetically dressing as they please, snubbing society’s arbitrary rules of how women should dress.

After deciding to move to what Wikipedia fondly labels “The Murder Capital of the United States” (i.e. Newark, New Jersey), it seemed that every random stranger in my small Midwestern town had warnings for me.

I am the daughter of two of the most loving and supportive parents. They taught me right from wrong, instilled in me a relentless work ethic, and showed up for every softball game as I daydreamed in center field.