"morally Open To Life"?

[justfran]

okay, in reply to LTNgurl's and Jenny's question, Pio None said

[quote]Also, the couple can be morally open to life if, while not planning on conception, they agree that any conception would be a welcome addition to the family.[/quote]

I am really, really scared that when I start a family (I'm only 17 but I want to get married and have a family), whoever is my husband, and I, wouldn't, physically or financially, be able to raise more than 2 children...I've seen my cousin and his family, with their financial situation (pretty dire, apparently) and two very gorgeous baby boys...mind you, I really would love a family! But I'm just really scared that with my interests and what I am studying I'd never be able to get a job to support my kids, even with a husband to help me.
And what about protection from STDs? (Or should that go into the NFP 4 U and Me phorum - I haven't got a password, but I am quite panicked now and I really feel I have to ask).

Edited June 14, 2004 by justfran

[Pio Nono]

JMJ
6/14 - Eleventh Monday

justfran,

Take a deeeeeeeeeeeeep breath......

Ok, good.

What I mean by "morally open to life" is this: while not intending to actually conceive, a couple is open to life should God decide to gift them with it. I can swing a ballbat without actually intending to hit a baseball, but should God place a ball within the range of my bat while I am swinging, I can't try to miss it. Does this help clarify things?

By the way, the reasons you describe (physical and financial difficulty) are perfectly good reasons for a couple to practice NFP. However, a bit of reliance on the Providence of God is called for as well; I know some people who, every time they conceived, they didn't have the money to support the child - by the time the child was born, though, (they were farmers) they acquired just enough land to cover the expenses of having another child. God provides, don't worry.

And with regards to STDs, the easiest plan of protection is abstinence from any sexual activity altogether. When one gets married, many states require a blood test, just to prove that there are no STDs present; the couple can request one as well. No one should be offended if their spouse-to-be wants them to get a blood test. If you have any further questions, PM the moderators on the NFP board in order to get that password. Hope this helps.

Yours,
Pio Nono