Being child-free has given me the capacity to be friends with people in different age groups. I'm more present and available.

Courtesy of the author

• My parents have given me subtle and not-so-subtle hints that they want me to have kids.
• But honestly, I have no interest in having kids of my own.
• Being child-free has allowed me to have friends of different ages and backgrounds.

A few years ago, when I was in my late 30s, my dad sent me two birthday cards with the identical message — "Have a child. It's the best investment you can make in your life!"

My...