I’m here because of my son. His stutter is almost every single word. I’ve lived a super f’d up life. Most people would crumble under the things that I have been through, and the things I’ve seen. I was scared for my son at first not because of his stutter, but because I didn’t know how I would teach him the lessons I’ve learned without having him go through that hell……For a while I didn’t want to bring another into this world because of said things. People are not nice. Ever. My adult life started out homeless at 14, taking care of my 11 yr old sister. You can imagine the world I lived in. I did what I had to do so we could survive, and I wouldn’t change a single second of it…..my point being is the things you’ve seen and been through are lessons most won’t have to learn, and to the ones who do, you are a beacon of light and hope for them. I don’t care what they say, empathy is learned, not a personality trait. Your stutter gave you a certain amount and type of empathy, that can be a HUGE weapon and powerhouse with the right mindset, and it’s the same thing I tell my son…..he gives 0 shits about what others think because of it and I am in awe of him every day. Have kids or don’t, your choice is your choice and no one can take that away from you. I’m not trying to change yours in the slightest. But if you want kids, don’t rob yourself of it before it’s even an option, and I’m guessing you do, otherwise it would’t be such a topic for it to be entrusted to your folks. Don’t let this trait of yours be a defining choice in your future. The moment we lean into what makes us different, is the moment beautiful things happen. I wish I would’ve learned that at your age. I would’ve been so much happier. This world needs more people like you in it.