I'm with you, OldPossum...in fact, I believe some of my friends are quite jealous of our happy life without children. Now, I'm not saying that having children is bad...I'm saying it's not for everyone and there is absolutely NOTHING wrong with that.
You will never have a grandchild wrap their arms around you and hear, "I love you, Mimi." Priceless. Grandchildren are God's special reward for having been a parent.
I completely agree with your statement. I on the other hand have two wonderful sons. I keep trying to get some way to gauge my perception - since they seem like the best, well mannered, fun loving, easiest kids to ever be with. But then again, I knew for myself, since about age 17 that this was my heart's desire (although thankfully they did not come around until age 35) ...to be a dad and to raise some children with true love. And as for those who don't want kids - I don't think "oh what they're missing" - nor do I envy them. It really has nothing to do with kids or no kids, but rather understanding yourself and your place on this earth during your lifetime...