<p>It’s tough to discuss this question, because no matter which decision one has made one is usually a bit conflicted about it and wistful about paths not taken or paths one wishes had been there. And, consequently, a bit prone to defensiveness, and quick to see others’ defenses of their choices as an attack on oneself.</p>
<p>Those of us with a Y chromosome are lucky. We get lavish praise for every carpool we drive and PTA meeting we attend, and no one ever seriously suggests that we should have chucked it all so that our kids never had to come home to an empty house or ride a bus.</p>