The Duggar Family: Eternally Pregnant For Jesus

Amelia
wrote on May 9 2008 @ 10:31 am: [report]

Oh my god, I pity that woman’s vagina.

Deirdre
wrote on May 9 2008 @ 11:11 am: [report]

Okay how do the feed, dress and actually love every single child? I am sorry but this sounds like a train wreck… STOP BREEDING!!!

Kiki T
wrote on May 9 2008 @ 11:40 am: [report]

J for Jesus Christ!!!!

Elle
wrote on May 9 2008 @ 11:50 am: [report]

Someone send that woman a life time supply of Yasmin!  I’m sorry, but that is completely and utterly socially irresponsible and selfish of them.  I mean if she really doesn’t want to have a period then she could go on Seasonale. 

Amelia
wrote on May 9 2008 @ 12:21 pm: [report]

I totally agree, Elle. She’s like a baby factory!

Simcha
wrote on May 9 2008 @ 01:32 pm: [report]

I like that they think God is doing it.  I’m pretty sure them having unprotected sex could actually be responsible…..

Amelia
wrote on May 9 2008 @ 01:33 pm: [report]

But only God can tell that sperm where to go.

toyen
wrote on May 9 2008 @ 01:49 pm: [report]

I prefer Annuale:
http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/5863fa1c0d

Catherine
wrote on May 9 2008 @ 02:04 pm: [report]

LOVE Annuale.

Sparky
wrote on May 9 2008 @ 04:25 pm: [report]

She needs to keep her legs together for a couple of days.

Elle
wrote on May 10 2008 @ 07:13 pm: [report]

Annuale is hot!  Side effects may include developing a second vagina!

Kimmie
wrote on May 11 2008 @ 12:50 pm: [report]

There was a little Monty Python ditty that goes like this

Every sperm is sacred
Every sperm is great
If any sperm get wasted
God gets quite irate

Elle
wrote on May 11 2008 @ 05:53 pm: [report]

Oh that’s right…masturbation is evil too!

cbass8
wrote on May 12 2008 @ 10:40 am: [report]

“A vagina is not a clown car”

LovesIt
wrote on May 13 2008 @ 09:22 am: [report]

TLC has done two specials on the Duggar family.  IMHO, they have a smaller carbon footprint than most people I know around this city.  Not to mention, they built their own home and grow a lot of their own food!

barbiesline
wrote on May 22 2008 @ 04:50 am: [report]

Just so you know, this family has built their own house and are debt free!  How many of us can say we are!  That’s a miracle in itself.  They are beautiful family, don’t criticize them for what they believe in.  God bless.

Catherine
wrote on May 22 2008 @ 06:40 am: [report]

@barbiesline: That is amazing. And, the house is HUGE—something like 7,000 square feet.

LovesIt
wrote on May 22 2008 @ 07:03 am: [report]

@Catherine—And it has slides, rope ladders, multiple pianos, and an industrial kitchen!  Seriously well-planned.

Last night I was watching Jon&Kate;Plus Eight on TLC.  It seems to me like people are more critical of lots of kids when it’s a religious family versus fertility drugs.  Just food for thought.

sahjmom
wrote on May 29 2008 @ 10:11 am: [report]

JimBob and Michele are truly blessed. To have seventeen (and one on the way) beautiful, healthy, well behaved, cooperative, God and family loving children is something to really be proud of. As long as they can handle this responsibility and love their “job”, glory to them. Soon it will be time to sit back and enjoy an even fuller house as the grandbabies come. And if the children take after the parents, what Holidays they will have!!!

Twinkieo
wrote on June 3 2008 @ 10:09 am: [report]

I am just wondering how they afford all those kids. I am struggling to support myself on a pretty decent income. But, then again, I don’t buy meat in bulk or anything.

atlgirl
wrote on June 3 2008 @ 11:14 am: [report]

@LovesIt: Very good point on religion vs. fertility drugs thing. Live and let live, people.

jenny
wrote on June 14 2008 @ 09:22 am: [report]

I thick they are blessed. God does not give anybody anything that a person can’t handle.

Sue
wrote on June 15 2008 @ 08:03 am: [report]

I have watched all the specials on the Duggar family and they seem like wonderful parents.  I just moved to Arkansas from California and trust me the way of life here is far better for raising children.
Why all the bad comments…they are not asking you to feed them, provide cloths for them or build them a house.  They do that themselves.  Unlike the MANY thousands of people on welfare making us do that for them. 
God Bless the Duggar Family

Beth
wrote on June 20 2008 @ 07:02 am: [report]

I hear she is due woth # 19 now! Come on now this is getting over the top. God is not giving them all these kids…seems like they are making them all on thier own.

ps LOVE! the clown car ref!

atlgirl
wrote on June 20 2008 @ 07:26 am: [report]

I’m sorry but I just can’t help but think about all the “stretching” that would have occurred by now.

Amelia
wrote on June 20 2008 @ 07:38 am: [report]

Doesn’t God want people to adopt too? Just wondering.

Heidi Adams
wrote on June 23 2008 @ 02:26 pm: [report]

I love the duggars. I’m only 13 years old and I think that they are doing a beautiful thing. they rock, and someday I hope to be like them, but a smaller version. If u read this, then Duggars, god bless u!

Becky
wrote on June 23 2008 @ 03:58 pm: [report]

I love the Duggars, too! They are very inspirational to me and because of watching the t.v. shows on them I’ve had to reconsider by previous perceptions about planning a family. I never really considered that having a large family and letting God to the planning was even an option. I’ve always thought that 2 or 3 children seemed like the responsible and reasonable thing, then I started to wonder…maybe my thoughts on this were Biblically unjustified. I good book on the subject that really has opened my eyes is A Quiver Full. I think it is awesome that people like the Duggars are raising a generation of promising young people raised for the glory of God to make a difference in the world. History shows that many of the people who’ve made a tremendous contribution to our world come from very large familes. It makes me wonder that if you stop having children after you’ve had two, what if number three, or number 10 even, might be the child to change to world. Just my two cents.

dmc
wrote on June 24 2008 @ 01:52 am: [report]

I am happy for them, however, If Mrs Duggar loves to be pregnant so often and loves the happiness that each of these children bring then, why not be a surrogate mother for families who have infertility issues, this too would be gods work.

Rachel
wrote on June 27 2008 @ 07:28 am: [report]

Great- as long as you can afford them and don’t rely on your older kids to raise them.  My concern is that the Dugger family really isolates their kids from the world- the only time they seem to get exposed to outsiders is if they do a family trip or homeschool events.  What happens when they want to go to college? Marry? Or, gasp.. don’t want to live in the family compound?  There is something kind of cultlike about the whole situation.  I hope these kids understand that the vast majority of the world isn’t like their safe little compound.

Barbie
wrote on June 27 2008 @ 07:37 am: [report]

The family is exposed to the outside world.  They are part of a church that I’m sure has members that live “normal” lives.  Talking about “normal” what is it?  Do we live normal lives because we choose to only have 2.5 kids and be materialistic?  This family makes due with what they have and are able to afford.  It looks to me, from the look of their house, that they know what the “outside” world looks like.  Because they are homeschooled and all dress the same is basically to save money - just a thought.  Mr. Duggar was a State Representative which should speak for itself.  Have you read why they decided to have so many children?  Just for the records they did plan to have just 2.5 kids so they decided she would take the pill to control when they would have children.  She had a miscarriage due to birth control pills.  They didn’t realize that the small print on the birth control pills cause chemical abortions and since they are Pro-life Christians, they decided to can the birth control pills and let God decide how many children they would have.

toyen
wrote on June 27 2008 @ 09:34 am: [report]

Wow, this is getting a lot of comments. I found this article about the whole thing really interesting:
http://bitchmagazine.org/article/multiply-and-conquer

Barbie
wrote on June 27 2008 @ 09:46 am: [report]

I think it’s getting a lot of response because it might be a deep down desire for many women to have and be able to raise a quiver full of children.  My two cents worth.  And we find it fascinating to know of one who had the guts to do it.

atlgirl
wrote on June 27 2008 @ 09:53 am: [report]

at least with all those kids, the parents will have SOMEONE to take care of them when they’re old.

Croutons
wrote on June 27 2008 @ 10:11 am: [report]

I’d be afraid all those little mouths would come try to DEVOUR ME ALIVE - like the evil brats in Barbarella.

Madelyn
wrote on June 29 2008 @ 03:11 pm: [report]

Barbie, birth control is NOT chemical abortion. 

What is commonly known as chemical abortion is the drug misoprostol, which works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the developing fetus.  Birth control, on the other hand is a low dose of the synthetic versions of the hormones estrogen and progesterone.  It works by keeping the ovaries from releasing eggs and inhibiting sperm movement by thickening cervical mucus. 

I have no problems with you wanting to have your own quiver full in the future, but please, don’t try to spread misinformation about birth control, which really does help many women.

Barbie
wrote on June 29 2008 @ 03:33 pm: [report]

I wouldn’t spread mis-information about something so important.  For those that are interested, please see the following website:
http://www.prolife.com/BIRTHCNT.html
This is where I got my information.

KellyC
wrote on June 29 2008 @ 04:08 pm: [report]

@Barbie I totally respect your right to your beliefs, but people should get information on topics like birth control from medical professionals not websites with an agenda. Many pro-life groups are anti-birth control and use scare tactics to get women (and girls!) to stop using them. I think I will continue to take my gynecologist’s opinion on this one and take BC pills so I don’t have to get a REAL abortion.

Barbie
wrote on June 30 2008 @ 04:12 am: [report]

Thank you for respecting my beliefs.  Being a Christian, I believe that people should be correctly informed about such issues, that is why I decided to mention it here.  Everyone should respect each other’s choices, I respect yours.  However, I do not believe that pro-life groups are anti-birth control and use scare tactics to get women (and girls for that matter) to stop using birth control pills.  I just believe that many “medical professionals” keep the truth from their patients because of the amount of money involved in prescribing medication.  It’s all about a matter of choice.  Some will choose to voice the truth about birth control pills and others will choose not to listen - an it’s O.K. because it’s a matter of the heart with each of us.

Lulubelle
wrote on June 30 2008 @ 07:33 am: [report]

Hooray - a Christian troll!

MCarter
wrote on July 7 2008 @ 06:56 am: [report]

I see people refer to the Dugger’s as “selfish” a lot. The family home schools all of their children, so it doesn’t cost the state a penny. A family with 1 child gets more state funds then this family. I hear people say they should adopt kids who need a home. I wonder how many people who say that have adopted a child. If you feel that more kids need to be adopted, then please adopt. Parents who are willing to put their selfish needs aside and raise a family of 18 children are not selfish, but selfless. It’s amazing to me how many people use hate speech against Christians without hesitation, but would be horrified if anyone used the same type of speech when speaking about just about anyone else.

duckie
wrote on July 9 2008 @ 08:07 pm: [report]

I think there’s a lot of negativity because its really hard for most people to understand.  I mean- I think its totally nuts.  But if thats what they want, then so be it; they seem to be handling it well. I just wonder how they ever find time to have sex anymore

Kristin
wrote on July 23 2008 @ 12:51 pm: [report]

I think that the Duggar family is very blessed with what they have and I am only 13. I do not think that negative commints about these people is very appropriate, I mean, come on if you do not have anything nice to say, do not say anything at all.

d-king
wrote on July 23 2008 @ 02:23 pm: [report]

When I first heard of the Duggars, I too was negative - assuming that “we” were supporting them, etc. , with our tax $$.  However, I’ve watched the tv-programs about them and admired the simplicity this family uses in raising their children…not only Bible-based, but just good common sense.  As for being able to function in the “real” world, I’m quite sure these kids will do every bit as well or better than the average.  It’s a sad day when people of today cannot recognize family values, love, support and nuturing - could it be because these things are in such short supply.

Erinna
wrote on July 24 2008 @ 07:06 am: [report]

Oh, yeah, prolife.com….now THERE is an unbiased source.

As long as these children are fed, clothed, housed, clean, and happy, that’s where anyone else as a member of society needs to butt out.  Personally, I think they’re nuts.  My one child is quite enough for me.  But they can manage it, and they do.  That makes it up to them and nobody else gets a vote.

Sara
wrote on July 24 2008 @ 07:50 am: [report]

What I don’t understand is how much hostility this family gets. All they seem to emanate is joy and kindness and they are constantly being persecuted. Everybody accuses them of not bringing up their children normally. But children from normal families go through horrible experiences like drug use, depression, feelings of suicide, cutting, anorexia, shall I go on? Maybe we can learn from this family. Not every mother should have all these kids, but we can learn from the Duggars by being more joyful, more loving, willing to work as a team in our own families and to teach our kids not to be so selfish. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our chidren grew up to be self-sufficient caring people? Come on people, if you’re so modern live and let live and don’t be so judgemental

Sueb
wrote on July 25 2008 @ 04:26 pm: [report]

I think the Duggars are very inspirational and do a whole lot better with 18 kids, then I could ever do with my measley 2…I totally respect them.

PAMELA
wrote on July 25 2008 @ 06:12 pm: [report]

Ok what I,am wondering is why dosent she think about being a seragate mother for people who cannot have children.I,am not gonna bad mouth michelle and jimbob because they do grow a lot of their own food and also pay for everything in cash even medical bills,which alot of us cannot do.I don’t believe that they payed for their house through because i just don’t think they could do it without help from tlc.I would also question really,if you sit an think about it how fair is it to the children that,
1.they never get any outside,friends,other then their parents friends children from their little home school world or church.
2.how can each child feel needed,loved or special and get that quilty one on one time that children need because the family is too big.
I ALSO THINK THAT IT IS UNFAIR TO THE TEENAGERS,NOT TO BE ABLE TO HAVE A LIFE OUTSIDE OF THEIR FAMILY,CHILDREN ESPECIALLY OLDER CHILDREN SHOULD NOT BE SHEILDED FROM THE WORLD.

felixdeecatt
wrote on July 25 2008 @ 07:31 pm: [report]

Pamela writes her concerns that the children do not have friends outside of their family and church. Few people have more than one or two good friends and many of us count our sisters or brothers as one of our best friends. I come from a family of eight and as an older child I was reponsible for chores and younger children. I grew up to be a responsible adult with 4 children of my own who do not use drugs,drink of run around. They are now a Marine,history major,and 2 high school kids. Just because they do not raise their children “normaly” as many people say does not mean they are wrong. Also they built their house over 3 years with cash. TLC did decorate for them. But what is wrong with being paid to share your life and spreading your beliefs. If someone offered to pay you to talk about your life most people would jump at the chance. But we would have to deal with peoples opinions of us also.

pamela
wrote on July 26 2008 @ 09:46 am: [report]

feelixdeecatt,
I see what your getting at,and I don’t mean to imply anything bad just a few concerns about the children.Nothing is wrong with that if they can share their beliefs with us.Boy do i wish i could pay for a home in cash,and get a little help..my other favorite shows which i,am trying to find more about is jon and kate plus eight and little people big world the roloffs.

Ane
wrote on July 26 2008 @ 01:52 pm: [report]

Nothing against this family or anything—they seem balanced enough—but some of the nature of the “Quiverfull” movement that families like the Duggars follow seems utterly reprehensible to me. Seems too easy to repress women this way, or advocate total domination of the male in the family. (remember Andrea Yates?) And the concept of feminism equaling anarchy that some fanatical Quiverfulls (including the women) embrace is laughable. Just putting that out there.

And yes, from what I’ve seen of the Duggar family on TLC and whatnot, I do think that concerns about the welfare of their children are valid. Yes, the Duggars are more than welcome to raise their kids however they see fit, but I personally think that the insular nature of the world they’re growing up in could be harmful when/if it comes time for them to leave it.

Barbara Ramos
wrote on July 26 2008 @ 02:29 pm: [report]

Wow!  I think this is the longest list of comments about one subject that I have ever seen.  Far be it from me, but I think that being raised in a large family gives you a sense of stability.  I just came back from being together with my extended family: cousins, aunts and uncle, and it was a wonderful experience to be with them for just a little while and I saw how the family is such an important part of growing up and having stable roots.  The grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and brothers and sisters are really important in the nurturing and raising up of children.

Sara
wrote on July 27 2008 @ 06:34 am: [report]

Well, let me tell you, I come from an ultra-orthodox Sephardic Jewish background and I can definitely say that children that I knew were way more sheltered from the outside world than the Duggars(my parents chose not to be religious, but I knew cousins and family friends and other children from the synagogue who were) and nobody criticizes them. Nobody criticizes the Amish. And as far as their house goes, they built it themseves from a website that sells you the plans and materials to build a steel home). And as far as the welfare of their children goes, what about the welfare of children being brought up normally? I have a friend who worked so hard to give her children a privileged life, so they wouldn’t have to work so hard living in poverty like she did, and the kids got mixed up with the wrong crowd and drug addiction, you have to see how “normal” their life is. Don’t you people understand that for a child or teen the most important thing is a stable home where their needs are met, a loving family and camaraderie with siblings, cousins, or friends. The Duggars have all three. I can’t believe I’m saying this but I just think that women get very critical of other women who decide to take an alternate path. Men are more open minded. We are supposed to applaud and encourage women to make their own choices. But everyone seems to have a problem when their choices are not the norm. And I know people will say “the kids don’t get to make a choice” but whose kids get to make a choice anyway? Does a baby choose daycare? Does a 5-year-old choose joint custody arrangements? Does a 13-year-old choose to live in a military family who moves from base to base every few years? Normal is relative.

Cecelia P. Peacock
wrote on July 27 2008 @ 03:53 pm: [report]

I totally respect the Duggars.  What fine examples they are in this world of broken families, broken children and selfcentered living.  God bless them all.

Breage
wrote on July 27 2008 @ 10:00 pm: [report]

America can’t manage itself or its infrastructure properly with 300,000,000 of you.  Yet you think a couple having 18 children is admirable?
This is the most blatant example of groundbase selfishness and self-indulgence I’ve come across in a long time.
There are already far too many humans inhabiting this planet at 6.6 billion.
Americans are in the top three emitters of greenhouse gases and the lifestyle of a family of 18 is going to put a heavy burden on an already stressed situation.
It is dismaying that other Americans think it’s wonderful.
You are out of touch with reality.

DenvertoLondon
wrote on July 27 2008 @ 11:13 pm: [report]

Breage, this is the most selfish thing youve seen in a while? You must read the news, but thats beside the point.
I think you are out of touch with reality. Take your opinions about america somewhere else. And chill out a bit.

SO about this family, she was taking medication in order to get pregnant, because she was infertile otherwise, and it caused all the twins. Something to consider if you are thinking about taking meds to get preggers.

Traci
wrote on July 27 2008 @ 11:49 pm: [report]

Hi duggers I dont know why everyone is giving your beef about your life style on having kids… You were blessed with a huge family. Unlike me that had one healthy baby first and then had a sick baby after that, that past away.. I only get blessed with one child.. She already is a hand full at 2 years old so I give you a lot of credit doing what you are doing… Some ppl may say your forming a little cult but I disagree. In the bible it says to have children and it didnt give you a limit on how many… So I admire you and your family and if you read this michelle or jim bob you guys are my heros.. I wish I could do what you do with only one child being debt free and all… I bet all these ppl that are talking beef about you guys would not be able to survive one day in your shoes.. So I give you lots of credit. God Bless you duggers for all the shows that teach us.. I know only good will come out of this whole dispute…. and congrats on your 18th baby.

Sara
wrote on July 28 2008 @ 05:42 am: [report]

As far as destroying the planet it is not how many chidren you have, but how materialistic and extravagant you are. I bet the Duggars carbon footprint is greener than most American families. If you want the number of chidren you can have to be government mandated instead of free choice, please move to China.

Sara
wrote on July 28 2008 @ 05:56 am: [report]

P.S. I’ve always been a rebel, so maybe I should have more kids…just to get everybody all riled up a little more. I would be infuriated at the thought of my basic freedoms taken away. Who put Al Gore in charge of how many children a woman can have? Women have fought hard for rights and now you want somebody else dictating how many children you can have?

Rozmarija
wrote on July 28 2008 @ 08:20 am: [report]

Can you imagine how hard it is for children #4 down through #18 to develop true individuality and a sense of their unique Self? They have to all conform to the same schedules, and identify as ‘the siblings’. There aren’t enough hours in a day of schooling and household duties for each child to be an Individual, or to spend meaningful time with a mother, or the older sibling who is viewed as parent surrogate

Sara
wrote on July 28 2008 @ 09:48 am: [report]

What do you think happens to your individuality in a daycare setting? Lots of freedom of expression and non-adherence to rules there, huh?

Jacklin
wrote on July 28 2008 @ 12:53 pm: [report]

I think it is a blessing! God says to be fruitfull. If this had been someone 50 years ago having these children no one would have thought twice. I can’t say that I am debt free as they are and I only have two that don’t get the attention I am sure her 17 does. GOD bless you and your family!

Ane
wrote on July 28 2008 @ 06:22 pm: [report]

If it had been someone 50 years ago having these children the woman in question probably wouldn’t have had a choice in the matter. That’s why no one would’ve thought twice.

And, again, development of individuality is a FAIR CONCERN, in any large or small family. Besides, from watching the Duggars on TV, their household seems pretty similar at points to what other commenters have described as a “daycare setting.”

And Al Gore? What about the other side—and I hate to bring this up, but—abortion laws? What gave federal/state governments the ability to take away my right NOT to have children?

Elle
wrote on July 28 2008 @ 08:10 pm: [report]

@Sara: “If you want the number of chidren you can have to be government mandated instead of free choice, please move to China.”

The Government IS trying to control how many children we have by trying to take away a woman’s right to choose, so what difference is it to place a limit on the number of children a woman can have? 

I hardly think the Duggars have a small carbon footprint considering all of the resources they must consume (paper products, diapers, etc), power, etc.  They don’t strike me as the sustainable type.  I’ve seen a few shows with them buying huge bulk packages of processed food to feed their kids.  Do you know the impact processed food and waste has on the environment? 

I would never deny a woman the right to have children, but 18 is excessive by any standard.  We are not in a place as a human race where we need to procreate heavily to sustain our future.  There are billions of us on this planet already and plenty of children out there without homes.

Zeroandone
wrote on July 29 2008 @ 05:52 am: [report]

I think this is messed up. There is no way they can afford it on thier own. We all know we are paying for all those kids to be feed sheltered through goverment support. Its a messed up society when these people can get what ever they want but we can’t support a family that has 1 or 2 children with what thier needs are. These people are happy because the more they pop out the more money they get. This is an act of being selfish. All these kids are homed schooled andhave no idea what the world is actually like. Wait until they get a reality check.

Sara
wrote on July 29 2008 @ 06:37 am: [report]

The facts behind my comments about their carbon footprint has to do with their frugality. Most frugal people buy used. Buying other people’s clothes, appliances, vehicles and tools prevents all these items from going in landfills. Also, she exclusively breastfeeds, another green idea. To the comments about them getting government help, they don’t. They afford it buy living a debt free life. They built their home themselves, bought their vehicles at government auctions. They make a living buying, selling, renting foreclosures they bought through auctions. As far as individuality, does a person’s hair and clothes really say much about their true selves? I cannot afford to buy clothes I like or get haircuts but that does not change who I am.As for abortion that’s a whole other topic altogether that we probably don’t agree on. However, if it angers you that someone is trying to take that away from you, do you see how it angers me that some people think all families should have a limit…so we could all look the same. This is as dangerous thinking to me as banning abortion would be to some of you.

tracy
wrote on July 29 2008 @ 10:34 am: [report]

I am amazed at the amount of comments, concerning the Duggar family.  I can only pray that more families are enlightened by their message of joy. I don’t believe the Duggar family is spotlighting the size of their family, but promoting the message of the love of God. The Duggar family is teaching their children to turn to God and family instead of the world, not such a bad lesson for us all.

toyen
wrote on July 29 2008 @ 10:55 am: [report]

Is this the #1 result if you google “Duggar”? Or linked to on a Quiverfull site or something? The traffic on this post is so insane, I have to “stop receiving notifications for this comment”!!

anne
wrote on July 29 2008 @ 05:15 pm: [report]

do you really think these kids have a good life????  as soon as they are old enough, they are cleaning the house washing the clothes cooking dinner and taking care of the younger kids.  no wonder the mom keeps popping them out she is a lady of leisure, while her kids do all the work.  anyone could pop them out if that is all she had to do all day.

Ane
wrote on July 29 2008 @ 10:38 pm: [report]

I honestly don’t mean to be rude, but if you think that by “individuality” one is talking about clothes and haircuts, I don’t think you’re quite qualified to discuss the subject.

Secondly, nothing against big families. We’re not talking about limitations here; and how many kids a woman has is as much her personal moral decision as it is whether or not to abort a fetus, or take birth control, etc. But there are some very good reasons why having 18 kids is excessive, and not too many against.

And turning solely to a god whose existence is dubious as opposed to facing the world which we all know to exist? Personally, I could think of better lessons.

Sara
wrote on July 30 2008 @ 03:57 am: [report]

I talked of clothes and haircuts because that seemed to be mentioned a lot. Of course I know there’s more to it than that. Which is precisely my point…unless you talk to someone personally, which none of us has, you cannot assume what is in their heart and soul. There are always constraints in society that limit individuality. Family rules, ethnic and religious cultures, schools, careers, daily responsibilities, economic conditions…all these can be limiting. But somehow, human creativity prevails. And, Ane, who made you the expert on the existence of God? And Anne, what makes you think the parents do zero work? I’m sure they all work hard. The only reason for saying this is your disdain of them. I never thought I’d be so riled up over this, but never have I seen such hateful comments. I am really enjoying the discourse, nonetheless. Thanks, guys.

Ane
wrote on July 30 2008 @ 07:27 pm: [report]

Eh. That was just my opinion/reaction to another comment, and really, I was kind of asking for trouble on that one.

As to the comments made here, most of them are not so much hateful, I think, as just appalled. And really, when I first heard of the Duggars, so was I, as well as a little bit disgusted. But that’s probably just because I can’t stand kids and don’t even want one, let alone 18.

Sara
wrote on July 31 2008 @ 03:16 am: [report]

Now I understand where you’re coming from. I must admit I never wanted chidren, myself. Somehow, the first time you hold your own, you feel very differently. And remember, they can grow up to be remarkable human beings. I have teenage kids and the best part of our relationship is the conversations we have, seeing how independent they are getting, but at the same time they still need mom.(I do not have 18, in case you’re wondering)

donata
wrote on July 31 2008 @ 05:14 am: [report]

Who cares? Next topic, please. I can’t believe how obssesed people are with the Duggars, anyway.

Mariel
wrote on July 31 2008 @ 07:01 pm: [report]

hi guys, just a couple thoughts.  I found it a little unnerving how it was the husband who was quoted in the blurb, as if Michelle Duggar’s opinion wasn’t really an issue.  Of course, this is quite possible that taken in context it would seem a bit less odd.

Also, I believe I read somebody saying that many great people came from great families.  This is true, and can also be said for Margaret Sanger, whose mother had eleven children and 18 pregnancies; she pretty much died from exhaustion from the toll it took on her body.  Margaret Sanger just happened to be the woman who had the drive to invent the birth control pill so that women could choose not to put such strain on their bodies and have control over it.  Duggar’s body is probably not in the state that Sanger’s mother’s was in, with the help of modern medicine and adequate funding, but she can’t be feeling stellar!

I do my very best to respect the opinions of others, and Michelle Duggar’s decision to procreate, but I can’t help but wonder whether her husband’s role as head of the household could be affecting Michelles decisions a little too much.

Tinka
wrote on July 31 2008 @ 09:25 pm: [report]

Come on now.  This is what they choose.  If you had watched any of the episodes you would really understand.  They have a huge home.  They are totally debt free.  They have a very loving home.  None of the children do without.  In anyway.  They are an awesome family.  The children are exceptionally smart. Well cared for.  Clean home.  Plenty of food.  AND did I say DEBT FREE.  I wish we all could say that!

prattmommy
wrote on August 4 2008 @ 12:18 pm: [report]

I think instead of rude comments by the people on this page, people need to keep the rudeness to themselves.  I think the mother and father are doing a wonderful job providing, raising them to love the Lord, and being respectful.  Which is what a good amount of you all are not doing.  Were you never taught to respect people, never taught that if you don’t have something nice to say, “DON"T SAY IT!”  I would love to have a big family with no debt, a lovely new house, and kids that love me.  It isn’t about getting old and seeing who will and won’t take care of me.  It is about God giving them children and them going into a good home.  God won’t give you more than you can handle so it looks like Mrs.Duggar is able to handle more and it is not a choice for you all to make.

MaBell
wrote on August 26 2008 @ 10:37 am: [report]

I hope that they would take in consideration the mothers health.  At some point they should stop having children and enjoy the ones they have.  Having a baby is major not to be taken lightly.  My opinion; at her age she should think about making this 19th her last, nless they are going for a record to have 20.  A women in her 40’s with that many pregnacies should be careful.  I personally hope they stop soon.  I think they are addicted to having babies.  Just watching them on TV they have done a much better job with their 19 than I’ve done with my 4.  I commend them on how they are raising their children.  If they were around when I was raising mine I my have taken notes from them.

revivemyheart
wrote on August 26 2008 @ 10:52 am: [report]

I fell upon these comments and I understand there are people who agree and disagree and people who just have to cause disagreements for the sport of it. May I ask a few questions so we can think about things as women?  Do we really enjoy the freedom we have been given by planned parenthood and womans lib? Do we have more gadgets and less time and money? Are we struggling to find time in a day to just relax? Do any of us really have any control over anything in this life?
I have read Genesis and I know I am under my husbands authority. But my husband has read Ephesisan and knows he must treat me as “Christ (loves)treats the church”. No place does it say I must “love” my husband but it does say he has to love me. My God and my bible are my guide. I make mistakes daily but I choose to live a positive life and not negative. Just food for thought!

shelleatualive
wrote on August 26 2008 @ 11:18 am: [report]

wow there are alot of posts on this article.. here is my meek little opinion:

I was the firstborn in a bible believing home-schooled family and let me tell you I consider myself a survivor..  Alot of kids I went on homeschool outings with are now stuck in the vicious jesus-freak breeding cycle that this lifestyle preaches. It is hard enough to develop a sense of self and individuality when you are growing up without being around your mother 24/7, The point of religious based homeschooling is to totally brainwash your kids into being little soldiers for christ. Come back with as many snide remarks as you want but I lived it. Homeschooling is bad bad bad for kids.. The only reason I made it is because I am a headstrong little brat and I refused to take life at face value.. and thank god for going off to college and finding out about the evil sinful world!

My opinion in the Duggars is that they probably love all of their little quiverfull of children, but the fact that they have 19 of them does not make them into saints, or horrible people who should be shunned by society. I think they are probably way misguided on their opinions on reproduction. The only concern I have is for the children. Are they learning proper social skills? Are they equipped for the outside world, will they ever venture into it? And what are they teaching their daughters, that they need to be baby machines too? ick, its irresponsible parenting..

shelleatualive
wrote on August 26 2008 @ 11:24 am: [report]

o yeah and what does that poor womans vagina look like?!?!?!

Eric
wrote on August 26 2008 @ 12:36 pm: [report]

I understand that back in older days it was customary for people to have lots of children as they were used for help on the farm or some sort of insurance policy when it comes to retirement age. But in a society like the one we live in today, with better healthcare and a social security system it leaves to question what motivates someone to have this many children. Some people mentioned that it is impossible to afford this many children, maybe not for some, but it is important to look at the affects it can have on the children itself. How many people out there suffer from abandonment issues, detachment from their environment, or social apathy. The menendez brothers, though deeply disturbed, felt that their parents did not spend enough time with them and treated them as objects. We all know the outcome of that family drama. Michelle states in an Interview that she gets to spend a lot of time with each of her children since she is home-schooling them and gets to be around them all day. Well lets brake that down and average the “alone time” she is talking about with each of her children. They get up at around 6:30 AM and go to bed around 10PM, after subtracting time for meals, personal hygene, alone time with her husband (probably to practice for child # 19), grocery shopping, doctor visits, schooling, and various other unplanned situations she is left with roughly 20-24 minutes of time with each of her offspring. And that’s probably on a good day. So we can see the perfect recipe for a very dysfunctional family, and endless possibilities of the children carrying some sort of disorder over in to their own lives. There is a lot more that could be said about this but I want to just leave it at this: STOP HAVING CHILDREN and focus on the ones you allready have. If you want to use religion as an excuse then consider this: God wants you to be a good parent, and how good can you be by spending roughly 20 minutes a day with your child. The world is populated enough without your help. Maybe it would be beneficial to the parents (probably the whole family) to seek counseling because it seems to me that there are two horders at work here. Some people are pack-rats others collect animals, these people collect kids. This isn’t love, this is an obsession born out of pure narcissism and it is only going to be a matter of time before the nice time-bomb these people are creating will explode. You aren’t gracing this world with god’s love but with a burden to the society in which we all live in.(or to put it in terms the Duggars will understand: the rest of god’s children in this world)

revivemyheart
wrote on August 26 2008 @ 02:24 pm: [report]

It is plain to read great deals of adult children were abandon and suffer from neglect as most of the comments state. No amount of words can remove that horrible pain. May I suggest talking to someone about your pain so you can continue being productive citizens and reach the potential you obviously want to reach? With Mr. Duggar having been an active member of our government, it is clear he wants the best for his children. Listen to the grown children who are in college and hear what they say. Some of them are receiving education to become teachers, doctors and language translators. The young adults in this family are giving to a society because they want to. They have not been a burden to it at all. It is amusing how people who accomplish the impossible and live life to the fullest get hammered. Maybe everyone who has responded to these comments need to take a few minutes and examine there own goals and see what positive things they are putting back into society. We all can make a difference. It is not based on our faith tradition. It is based on our choices.

Lois
wrote on August 26 2008 @ 10:24 pm: [report]

This family exudes lots of love and devotion to one another.  She’s a great Mom so why shouldn’t she have as many as she can take care of?? It’s not for any of US to judge! I think they are innovative and am grateful that they allow the public to peer into their busy lives.

Barbara
wrote on August 27 2008 @ 02:30 am: [report]

Eric, what fact are you basing your comment on? As far as I can see (and who are we to judge from the outside for that matter) this family is a united loving family with ethics and morals.  They are not hurting anyone, except those that think they are more in control than God.  Bottom line is that they are debt free, live in beautiful home and have a lovely family - something that should be envied instead of criticized.  God bless.

LaWood
wrote on August 27 2008 @ 08:19 pm: [report]

I just watched the road trip and in the end another blond woman was introduced named Michelle…Is that another wife of his or their NANNY?  I am absolutely dying to know

Judy
wrote on August 28 2008 @ 06:06 am: [report]

What I have noticed that all of their children are normal, non with a handicap. The odds of that is so rare.What I also notice is the love and respect that the parents have for each other is a real example of why all these kids are so well adjusted. With a family that big they have to be doing something right bccause it would show up on T.V.You watch Jon and Kate and the cameras love when the kids misbehave.I’d love to know their secret.I look forward to watching this family when they have the specials.

JADA
wrote on August 28 2008 @ 06:05 pm: [report]

LAwood you must have missed part of the show… the other Michelle was another mom with merely 14 children who the Duggars met up with.

My thoughts - yes, they have freedom of choice regarding reproduction HOWEVER no one on this entire comment list that I saw made reference to the obvious lifestyle they are enjoying because of MEDIA and TELEVISION!  Their entire career and livlihoods are because of the fact they are a reality based tv show.  Or occasional show.  Do not doubt for one minute that they receive tons o’ money for their use of products on the shows (see when they have the areas blurred out for ones they are not getting $ for).  Also, when they travel and are ‘featured’ on different places like a pistachio ranch (!) that place is no doubt receiving exposure via the tv show! 

While yes they are debt free, have a fabulous house and oh yeah, make a buck or two speaking and with parenting seminars, they are also a product of media.  Don’t forget that.  They know the cameras are there.

Eric
wrote on August 28 2008 @ 08:45 pm: [report]

I completely agree with Jada on this. People have a tendency to act a lot different when put in front of a camera for all the world to see and judge then if there were no cameras at all. What we see on TV is the tiniest snippet of their lives, and surely is not enough for us to see how the Duggars truly are. As I have written before, it’s a time bomb waiting to explode and I completly disagree with the fact that these people are put in the spotlight as if this was something we all should strive to be like. Imagine if everyone had the same outlook on family and kids, this world would be overpopulated and ruined within one or two generations. People need to start looking at this as what it is, a severe psychological disorder of two people wanting to excuse their breeding/hoarding with what else, God. I really wish that all of the lunatics in the world would stop using religion as an excuse to do whatever they please. From radical muslims that have caused us to go to war, to mormon child molestors that keep their children looked up like sex slaves in a compound masked by supposed religious ambition. The whole “god wanted us to have this many children” excuse by the Duggars is a very bad excuse and it does not evoke any sympathy from me. Enough is enough, if someone had that many cats or dogs we would call the animal cruelty police, too bad we don’t have that for people like this.

Sc
wrote on August 29 2008 @ 10:59 pm: [report]

PEOPLE WHO WRITE THAT THESE PARENTS ARE SELFISH TO HAVE THAT MANY KIDS, ARE ACTUALLY THE ONES THAT ARE…THEY PROBABLY ONLY HAVE 1 OR 2 KIDS, BECAUSE THEY WANT THEIR OWN SELFISH THINGS IN LIFE, AND DON’T WANT TO TAKE THE TIME TO PUT IN THE HARD WORK AND EFFORT THAT IT TAKES INTO RAISING CHILDREN, INSTEAD OF DOING WHAT THIS MOTHER DOES, AND STAYS HOME. WHY BOTHER HAVING ANY IF YOU DON’T WANT TO BE THE ONE TO RAISE THEM? INSTEAD WHY DON’T WE LET SOME STRANGER RAISE OUR CHILDREN, LET THEM DECIDE WHAT VALUES, STANDARDS, AND MORALS THEY WILL TEACH OUR CHILDREN, ALL THE WHILE WE THEN COMPLAIN THAT WE DON’T KNOW WHY KIDS ARE THE WAY THEY ARE NOWADAYS…COULD IT BE THAT WE WEREN’T THERE FOR THEM WHEN THEY NEEDED US MOST? COULD IT BE WHILE WE WERE AT WORK THEY WERE GETTING INTO TROUBLE? COULD IT BE THAT THEY WERE NEGLECTED BY US? WHY DO WE HAVE TO LIVE IN A WORLD THAT VIEWS THIS AS SO SEXIST? ITS NICE TO HAVE EQUAL RIGHTS AND ALL, BUT FOR WHAT? AT THE COST OF OUR CHILDREN, THE FUTURE GENERATION? TELL ME WHAT CHILD DOESN’T WANT THEIR MOM AT HOME WITH THEM, WHEN THEY ARE SICK, OR IN NEED? WHO DOESN’T LIKE A MOM WHO COOKS FOR THEM, AND TAKES CARE OF THEM, PATCHES UP SCRAPED KNEES, PLAYS WITH THEM, AND LOVES THEIR CHILD UNCONDITIONALLY??? ARE WE THAT DELUSIONAL THAT WE ALL THINK THAT OUR CHILD/CHILDREN WILL GET THAT LEVEL OF CARE FROM SOMEONE ELSE BUT OURSELVES? THIS ANGERS ME THAT PEOPLE WOULD ACTUALLY HAVE THE GALL TO WRITE ABOUT THIS WOMEN’S VAGINA AND HOW FAR IT IS STRETCHED, HOW IMMATURE!!! DO YOU HAVE NOTHING BETTER TO DO THAN TO PUT DOWN SOMEONE BECAUSE OF YOUR OWN INFERIORITY COMPLEXES? DISAPPOINTING!!! GOD BLESS THE DUGGAR FAMILY, I AM SURE GOD SEE’S THINGS IN A TOTALLY DIFFERENT LIGHT AND IS PROUD OF YOUR PROGRESSION HERE IN THIS LIFE, AND ONLY BLESSINGS CAN COME FROM THAT! 100%!!! AND OBVIOUSLY YOU KNOW THAT, AND I DON’T NEED TO TELL YOU!

Pat
wrote on August 30 2008 @ 12:29 pm: [report]

Jealousy, that is what this is all about.  The bad mouthers in this forum did not get all they wanted in this life.  So to see a couple who have done nothing but exercise their right to freedom of choice and religion, prosper and enjoy their rewards and blessings, sets the “green-eyed monster” in action. We all have different purposes, desires, and acheivements in life.  We all view family, home and citizenship in our own way.  As long as we don’t push our beliefs off on somebody else, we are free to live these lives without oppression.  MYOB to all the insulting, nosey, critical, jealous, busybodies who should be looking for ways to improve, and provide for their own families instead of demeaning others.  Best Wishes to all the Duggers and all the other families in this world that choose to devote their life and love to the American Family, whatever size it is!

Cynthia Ramirez
wrote on September 1 2008 @ 01:11 am: [report]

I absolutely LOVE this family.  I printed out their “family rules” from their website and am beginning to use them with my own family. 

I have 2 children right now and plan to have more when I an finished with my schooling.  My children are well cared for and are quite a handful.  I only pray that I could have the patience with my 2 that Michelle and Jim Bob have with their 18.

SD
wrote on September 4 2008 @ 07:18 am: [report]

They have no television or internet in their home, yet they have their own website…why?  There are many families who have as many if not more children, we aren’t seeing them on television…again… why not?

As far as God deciding how many children they have…God gave us freedom of choice, He isn’t creating these children for them, they are, and they need to use common sense, freedom of choice is just that…they CHOOSE to not take precautions when having sex which results in pregnancy. Plain and simple, the sperm meets the egg, a baby is the end result! Don’t be blaming God for your choice!

The bottom line is this, it’s their choice, if they want to have 50 kids, who am I to tell them they are wrong.  They aren’t asking me to help them, so I say more power to them.  They must be doing something right, they are on television, which I’m sure they are paid well for allowing the media into their lives.

kim
wrote on September 4 2008 @ 06:35 pm: [report]

I think they are very good parents.Who cares how many children they have the most important thing is that they can take care of them.I mean look at that house they built they have more then enough room for them and they have enough money to support all those kids.

Amy
wrote on September 4 2008 @ 07:21 pm: [report]

Just imagine their tax return.

Kaycee
wrote on September 5 2008 @ 02:24 pm: [report]

oh my god!!! wow I feel sorry for Michelle…I wonder if the children just walk out now with a bible in their hands….I mean kids are great i love the 2 nephews that i have but when god said fill the earth and subdue it he said it to adam and eve!wow i guess whatever floats your boat but wow i cant imagine, its like way to many kids…....

Ava
wrote on September 28 2008 @ 04:13 am: [report]

You know, here’s an interesting thought…how do you know God doesn’t want us to have tons of kids? Why did he create in us the sexual desire which is so powerful that no matter how many times we educate our teens about birth control, they still get pregnant? Why is it that a woman’s desire is greatest during ovulation? Why is it that the more months a woman is pregnant and breastfeeds, the less chance for her to get breast and ovarian cancer? Why does the pill up your chances for a stroke? Did it ever occur to anyone that we’ve been designed to have large families? And by the way I know coming from a large family doesn’t guarantee the children won’t have problems, but what about all the children with tons of emotional and mental problems who come from smaller, normal families? You can have bad parenting in a small or big family. You can have 2 children think you’re doing everything right and one day find out your child suffers from depression. There are no guarantees in life. The best you can do is love your family with all your heart and work very hard to give your children a good life, whether you have 2 or 20. And pray.

Tammy
wrote on September 30 2008 @ 10:58 pm: [report]

this family does have a tv and internet.  The parents just limit and monitor what their children are wacthing.  More parents should do this. How many young children fall prey to sick people over the internet? How much time do you think a working mother spend with her 2.5 children?? After she works a 8 plus hour day, not including drive time plus keeping the house in order. Plus it never hurt a kids to do work around the house.  At least these kids will know how to work and what it takes to have and raise children. What is wrong with teaching children to repect others and give our time to others?  That is what is wrong with this world today. Maybe if the avg american child watched less TV and played less video games, there would not be a weight problem in our youth.
I live in Arkansas. This family does get out and socializes.  I could not handle 18 children but if they can then so be it.

marie
wrote on November 3 2008 @ 09:41 pm: [report]

wow sex for them must be like throwing a hotdog down a hallway

jaime
wrote on November 3 2008 @ 09:46 pm: [report]

it seems to me that from watching the show those poor kids will be so lost when they go out into the real world… i think they are just a little too sheltered

Perceptible
wrote on December 22 2008 @ 11:59 am: [report]

OMG! Hotdog down a hallway made me laugh out loud! Thanks Marie!