When mothers meet, we are bound to share stories of our pregnancies and kids. It’s almost like how guys can meet for the first time and go on about their male-bonding experience – National Service (NS). It is often said that child bearing is like the female form of NS in which females contribute to the nation. Singapore’s latest birth rate (2008) is at a record low of 1.28.
Well, motherhood is indeed a female-only experience. I’ve gained a different level of understanding about my mum and mum-in-law through it. It has also allowed me to rekindle and start new friendships. And like NS, some have it easier than others. Some enjoy it more than others.
But unlike NS, it’s not compulsory at a particular year. Most of us decide to have a kid after some consideration. And there’s no ORD (Operationally Ready Date) or reservists, thank goodness!. We can only hope that our kid will grow up to be independent but even then – once a mum, always a mum.
Contributing to the nation’s birth rate never crossed our minds when we decided to have a child. It can be more appropriately described as a favourable by-effect for the nation. There’s really nothing patriotic about feeding and changing diapers!
Nonetheless, Happy National Day! 
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