Hear, hear, Messybear!
Aside from having reservations about bringing a child into this troubled world in the first place, I can't see why you'd question your abilities as a prospective parent, Reg. Everything you write here is so well considered and thoughtful. The story about your grandfather was wonderful - how special is that? All of those childhood experiences have shaped the person you have become. You're clever, funny, passionate, have a strong sense of social justice and you can articulate your thoughts so well. Communicating with your children and setting a good life example is so important - I think you'd make a great Dad!
