The phrase represents a query, commonly found on social media platforms like Reddit, where individuals seek validation or understanding regarding their aversion to infants. It is a request for community input on the acceptability of a particular sentiment. The expression “dislike babies” denotes a negative feeling or lack of positive inclination towards infants, which are commonly defined as children under the age of one year. An example would be a person posting the statement to the online platform in order to gauge the social acceptance of their views.
This type of inquiry highlights the societal pressure to find babies endearing and the potential guilt individuals may experience when they don’t conform to this expectation. Historically, societal norms have often placed a high value on the maternal instinct and the innate love of children. Deviating from this norm can lead to feelings of isolation or the fear of judgment, prompting individuals to seek reassurance within online communities. The benefits of such online discussions can include a sense of belonging, shared experiences, and the normalization of diverse emotional responses.
The article will explore the multifaceted nature of this sentiment. It will delve into the psychological and sociological factors that contribute to diverse feelings towards infants. Furthermore, it will analyze the responses and discussions generated by such queries on platforms like Reddit, focusing on the acceptance, criticism, and advice provided by the online community.
1. Societal Pressure
Societal pressure exerts a significant influence on the query “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies.” The pervasive cultural narrative generally portrays infants as universally endearing, eliciting positive emotions. This expectation, reinforced through media portrayals, family dynamics, and social interactions, can create internal conflict for individuals who do not experience these sentiments. The expression of dislike, therefore, becomes a deviation from the accepted norm, prompting individuals to seek validation or reassurance from online communities.
The importance of societal pressure as a component of the query lies in its role as the primary driver for the question’s existence. Without the underlying expectation of universal affection for babies, the individual would likely not feel the need to question or justify their personal feelings. Examples abound: the unsolicited advice given to individuals who express ambivalence toward parenthood; the assumption that all women desire motherhood; and the constant barrage of baby-related content in advertising and social media. These instances collectively contribute to a climate where expressing dislike for babies is perceived as transgressive.
Understanding the impact of societal pressure on this particular sentiment has practical significance. It allows for a more nuanced discussion about emotional responses to infants, acknowledging that individual feelings are complex and not always aligned with societal expectations. Furthermore, it can encourage greater acceptance of diverse perspectives and alleviate the sense of guilt or shame experienced by those who do not conform to the perceived norm. Acknowledging this pressure can foster a more compassionate and understanding dialogue around personal feelings towards babies.
2. Personal experiences
Personal experiences form a significant foundation for sentiments expressed in the query “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies.” Past interactions, particularly those during childhood or adolescence, can profoundly influence subsequent emotional responses to infants. Negative or traumatic childhood experiences, such as neglect, abuse, or sibling rivalry, may establish associations between vulnerability, dependency, and negative emotions. Consequently, the presence of an infant, who embodies these characteristics, can trigger subconscious negative responses.
The importance of personal experiences lies in their causal link to the stated sentiment. Unlike inherent predispositions, these learned associations shape individual emotional landscapes. For instance, individuals who witnessed parental stress or experienced significant limitations due to the presence of younger siblings might develop a subconscious aversion to the demands and perceived limitations associated with infants. Similarly, personal sensitivities to certain sensory stimuli, such as the sounds or smells associated with babies, can stem from past experiences and contribute to a negative perception. Consider the individual who, as a child, was consistently overwhelmed by the crying of a younger sibling; this experience could lead to a lasting aversion to the sound of infants crying. Another example is an individual who witnessed their parent struggle significantly with postpartum depression, leading them to associate infants with profound sadness and difficulty.
Understanding the role of personal experiences offers a path towards self-awareness and potential emotional resolution. Acknowledging the influence of past events can facilitate the development of coping mechanisms or strategies for managing negative emotions in the presence of infants. Moreover, it enables individuals to contextualize their feelings, recognizing that they are not necessarily indicative of inherent character flaws, but rather are the result of learned associations. This understanding promotes self-compassion and reduces the sense of guilt or shame that often accompanies the expression of negative sentiments towards infants, facilitating a more open and honest dialogue about the complexities of human emotion.
3. Hormonal influences
Hormonal influences can play a significant, though often understated, role in shaping individual feelings towards infants, thereby relating to the sentiment expressed in the query “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies.” Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women, can affect emotional responses and sensitivities, potentially contributing to a disinclination towards babies in certain circumstances.
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Postpartum Hormonal Shift and Postpartum Mood Disorders
The dramatic hormonal changes experienced by women after childbirth, including declines in estrogen and progesterone, are well-documented contributors to postpartum mood disorders such as postpartum depression and anxiety. While these disorders are typically characterized by sadness, anxiety, and feelings of overwhelm, they can also manifest as feelings of detachment or aversion towards the infant. A woman experiencing these hormonal shifts might question her lack of maternal instinct or experience guilt over her feelings, potentially leading her to seek validation online with a query similar to the one in question. This is often coupled with societal expectation that a women are instantly and unconditionally attached to their child. However, Postpartum is very difficult.
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Hormonal Contraception and Emotional Regulation
Hormonal contraception, such as birth control pills or hormonal IUDs, can influence emotional regulation and potentially affect the perception of infants. These contraceptives alter hormone levels, impacting mood and potentially reducing empathy or nurturing instincts in some individuals. Consequently, a person using hormonal contraception may experience a diminished emotional response to babies, leading them to question the norm of universal affection. These fluctuations can create a sense of discord between the internal feeling and the external expectation, which prompts a posting on “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies”.
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Hormonal Impact on Sensory Sensitivity
Hormones can also influence sensory sensitivities, which can indirectly impact feelings towards infants. Heightened sensitivity to sounds, smells, or visual stimuli, often linked to hormonal imbalances, might make the sensory experience of being around babies, such as their crying, smells of bodily fluids, or unpredictable movements, particularly aversive. These heightened sensitivities can contribute to a feeling of dislike or discomfort, prompting questions about the acceptability of such feelings, “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies.”
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Hormonal Influence During Pregnancy (for non-pregnant individuals)
Exposure to pregnant women and their infants could trigger subconscious hormonal responses in other women, although more subtle than postpartum changes. It is understood that hormonal levels are connected to feelings. For example, if the woman is in the same work place with the pregnant women, they will likely be connected to each other. The extent of the hormonal impact in non-pregnant individuals is minimal. However, it may still be a factor for reddit users.
In summary, hormonal influences, while complex and multifaceted, can contribute to the spectrum of feelings individuals experience towards infants. These hormonal factors provide a biological context for understanding variations in emotional responses and highlight the complex interplay between physiology, psychology, and societal expectations. The acknowledgment of these hormonal factors promotes a more compassionate and nuanced understanding of the sentiments expressed in the query “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies,” allowing for a more open and accepting dialogue about the diversity of human emotions.
4. Sensory overload
Sensory overload, a condition characterized by the brain’s inability to effectively process the volume and intensity of incoming sensory stimuli, directly relates to the sentiments expressed in the query “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies.” Infants are inherently associated with a variety of intense sensory inputs, including loud crying, unpredictable movements, strong odors (e.g., diaper changes, baby formula), and tactile demands (e.g., holding, cuddling). For individuals prone to sensory overload, these stimuli can be intensely aversive, triggering feelings of anxiety, irritation, and a desire to avoid the source of the sensory input.
The importance of sensory overload as a component of the “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies” query stems from its potential to transform typical infant-related stimuli into highly unpleasant experiences. For example, an individual with heightened auditory sensitivity may find the sound of an infant’s cry to be unbearable, leading to feelings of aversion and frustration. Another person with tactile defensiveness might find the sensation of holding a baby uncomfortable or even distressing. Furthermore, individuals with pre-existing conditions like autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing disorder, or anxiety disorders are particularly susceptible to sensory overload and may therefore experience a stronger negative reaction to the sensory environment surrounding infants. The act of posting on Reddit reflects an attempt to reconcile these personal sensory experiences with the widespread societal expectation that babies should be perceived positively.
Understanding the connection between sensory overload and negative sentiments towards babies has practical significance. Recognizing sensory sensitivities as a contributing factor allows for the development of strategies to mitigate the overwhelming effects of sensory input. These strategies might include limiting exposure to infants, creating a sensory-friendly environment when interaction is unavoidable, utilizing noise-canceling headphones, or practicing mindfulness techniques to manage anxiety. More broadly, this understanding promotes empathy and acceptance of diverse emotional responses to infants, recognizing that aversion may stem from neurological differences rather than a lack of inherent empathy or compassion. This promotes a more compassionate and understanding environment for individuals experiencing these feelings, reducing the social pressure to conform to an idealized portrayal of affection towards infants.
5. Individual autonomy
Individual autonomy, the capacity for self-governance and independent decision-making, is a critical lens through which to examine the sentiments expressed in the query “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies.” The societal expectation of universal affection for infants can clash with an individual’s inherent right to define personal preferences and emotional boundaries. This dissonance often prompts the seeking of external validation, as evidenced by the Reddit post.
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Right to Emotional Self-Determination
The core of individual autonomy lies in the right to determine one’s own emotions and preferences, free from coercion or societal pressure. The expectation to automatically adore babies infringes upon this right. An individual’s dislike of babies, regardless of the reason, should be respected as a valid emotional response. For instance, a person may prioritize career goals and view the presence of infants as antithetical to those aspirations, leading to a negative association. Condemning such feelings disregards the individual’s autonomy in shaping their emotional landscape.
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Rejection of Compulsory Affection
Compulsory affection, the societal pressure to exhibit specific emotions towards certain groups or individuals, undermines individual autonomy. The sentiment that all individuals should love babies is an example of this pressure. Those who do not conform may feel compelled to suppress their true feelings or seek external validation to justify their emotional divergence. For example, a person may be expected to coo over a friend’s baby, even if they find the experience unpleasant. The tension between this expectation and their authentic feelings can lead to significant internal conflict.
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Assertion of Personal Boundaries
Individual autonomy involves the establishment and maintenance of personal boundaries, including those related to emotional and physical proximity to infants. A person may dislike the physical demands of caring for babies, the noise they generate, or the lifestyle changes associated with parenthood. Asserting a boundary, such as limiting contact with infants or declining babysitting requests, is a manifestation of this autonomy. Societal norms that pressure individuals to be more involved with babies than they are comfortable with directly infringe upon this right.
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Challenge to Traditional Gender Roles
The expectation to universally love babies is often disproportionately applied to women, reinforcing traditional gender roles that equate femininity with motherhood and nurturing instincts. A woman expressing a dislike of babies challenges these stereotypes and asserts her autonomy in defining her identity beyond conventional expectations. For example, a woman may choose not to have children and actively distance herself from infant-related activities. Her decision should be viewed as a valid expression of personal autonomy, rather than a deviation from expected gender norms. The expression “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies” is also tied to traditional gender roles.
These facets of individual autonomy underscore the complexity of the “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies” query. It is not merely a question of liking or disliking infants, but a reflection of the tension between individual rights and societal expectations. Upholding individual autonomy necessitates respecting diverse emotional responses, even those that diverge from the perceived norm, and allowing individuals to define their relationships with infants on their own terms.
6. Acceptance seeking
The query “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies” is fundamentally intertwined with the concept of acceptance seeking. The act of posting such a question on a public forum like Reddit suggests a desire for validation, understanding, or normalization of a potentially stigmatized sentiment. This behavior underscores the inherent human need for social acceptance and the potential consequences of perceived social deviation.
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Validation of Non-Normative Feelings
Individuals who experience a dislike of babies may feel isolated or abnormal due to the prevailing societal expectation of universal affection for infants. Posting the query on Reddit is a means of seeking validation that their feelings are legitimate and not indicative of a moral failing. For example, an individual might fear being perceived as cold-hearted or lacking in empathy. The responses received, whether supportive or critical, provide a framework for understanding the social acceptability of their viewpoint. A supportive response can alleviate feelings of guilt and reinforce the validity of their personal experience.
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Mitigation of Social Isolation
The act of posting a query such as “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies” can function as a means of mitigating social isolation. Individuals harboring this sentiment may feel unable to openly discuss it with family or friends due to fear of judgment or rejection. Online communities like Reddit offer a space where individuals can connect with others who share similar feelings, fostering a sense of belonging and shared understanding. This connection can reduce the sense of isolation and provide a platform for exchanging coping strategies.
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Exploration of Underlying Causes
Seeking acceptance through online forums can also facilitate an exploration of the underlying causes for the sentiment. By sharing their experiences and perspectives, individuals may receive insights from others that help them understand the origins of their dislike for babies. This process of self-discovery can lead to increased self-awareness and a more nuanced understanding of their own emotions. For example, a user might share personal experiences or childhood traumas that contribute to their feelings, allowing others to offer support and relevant information.
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Navigation of Social Interactions
Acceptance seeking can also be driven by a desire to navigate social interactions more effectively. Individuals who dislike babies may struggle with social situations where infants are present, feeling pressured to feign affection or engage in behaviors that conflict with their true feelings. By seeking advice and validation on Reddit, they aim to develop strategies for managing these situations in a way that minimizes social discomfort and avoids negative judgment. This may include learning how to politely decline babysitting requests or how to respond to unsolicited advice about parenthood.
The facets of acceptance seeking demonstrate that the query “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies” is more than just a simple statement of preference. It is a complex social interaction driven by the need for validation, connection, and a better understanding of oneself within a social context. The responses received on platforms like Reddit can significantly impact an individual’s perception of their own emotions and their ability to navigate social situations involving infants. The quest for acceptance underscores the pervasive influence of social norms on individual emotions and behaviors.
7. Guilt mitigation
The query “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies” often represents an attempt at guilt mitigation. The societal expectation that babies are universally endearing can induce feelings of guilt in individuals who do not experience these sentiments. The act of posting on Reddit serves as a mechanism to alleviate this guilt by seeking validation, normalization, and alternative perspectives on the acceptability of their feelings. This behavior arises from the cognitive dissonance between personal feelings and perceived social norms. Individuals experiencing this dissonance may attempt to reconcile their internal state with external expectations to reduce psychological discomfort. The importance of guilt mitigation as a component of the query lies in its direct influence on the individual’s motivation to seek external validation. Without the presence of guilt, the need to question the acceptability of their feelings diminishes. For example, an individual who does not feel guilty about disliking babies is less likely to seek reassurance from online communities. Conversely, the stronger the feelings of guilt, the greater the likelihood of seeking external validation and support.
The process of guilt mitigation can manifest in various ways within the Reddit thread. Individuals might share personal anecdotes or experiences to justify their sentiments, highlighting challenges or negative aspects associated with infants. They may also seek reassurance that their feelings are not uncommon or indicative of a moral failing. Furthermore, the responses received within the thread play a crucial role in the guilt mitigation process. Supportive comments from other users who share similar feelings can provide validation and normalization, reducing the individual’s sense of isolation and guilt. Conversely, critical or judgmental responses can exacerbate feelings of guilt and reinforce the perception of their sentiments as unacceptable. Real-life examples include individuals who have experienced difficult childhoods, witnessed parental stress related to infant care, or have sensory sensitivities that make interacting with babies unpleasant. Sharing these experiences online can serve as a means of seeking understanding and alleviating the guilt associated with their negative sentiments.
Understanding the connection between guilt mitigation and the “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies” query offers practical significance. It allows for a more empathetic and nuanced understanding of the individual’s motivations for seeking external validation. Recognizing that the query is often driven by a desire to alleviate guilt can inform the responses and discussions within the online community, promoting a more supportive and accepting environment. Furthermore, this understanding can encourage individuals to explore the underlying causes of their feelings and develop coping mechanisms for managing guilt and social pressure. The challenge lies in fostering a social climate where diverse emotional responses are accepted without judgment, reducing the societal pressure that contributes to feelings of guilt and the subsequent need for external validation. This promotes a more inclusive and compassionate dialogue around the complexities of human emotion.
8. Emotional variance
Emotional variance, the natural range and diversity of human emotions, directly relates to the sentiment expressed in the query “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies.” The assumption that all individuals should experience positive emotions towards infants disregards the reality of emotional variance. Human emotional responses are complex and influenced by a multitude of factors, including personal experiences, hormonal influences, sensory sensitivities, and individual temperament. Therefore, a dislike of babies falls within the spectrum of normal emotional responses, even if it deviates from societal expectations. The inquiry posed on Reddit often stems from a perceived lack of alignment between personal feelings and the expected norm, prompting individuals to seek validation for their emotional divergence. The importance of emotional variance as a component of the query lies in its challenge to the notion of a singular, prescribed emotional response. It highlights the necessity of acknowledging and accepting the diverse ways in which individuals experience and process emotions. For example, an individual with a naturally low level of empathy may not experience the same level of affection towards infants as someone with a high level of empathy. Another individual with a history of negative childhood experiences may subconsciously associate infants with feelings of vulnerability or dependency. These diverse experiences contribute to a wide range of emotional responses, which should be recognized as valid expressions of emotional variance.
Further analyzing this connection reveals the consequences of ignoring emotional variance. Societal pressure to conform to a specific emotional response can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and isolation for those who do not align with the perceived norm. These negative emotions can be exacerbated by judgmental or critical responses from others who fail to understand or accept the individual’s emotional divergence. Moreover, suppressing genuine emotions in an attempt to conform to societal expectations can have detrimental effects on mental health and well-being. For instance, an individual who feels compelled to feign affection towards babies may experience chronic stress and anxiety, leading to feelings of inauthenticity and emotional exhaustion. Practical applications of understanding the role of emotional variance include fostering greater empathy and acceptance within online communities, promoting open and honest discussions about diverse emotional experiences, and challenging the assumption that certain emotions are inherently “correct” or “desirable.”
In summary, the query “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies” underscores the significance of acknowledging and accepting emotional variance. It highlights the need to challenge societal expectations that prescribe specific emotional responses and to promote a more inclusive and compassionate understanding of the diverse ways in which individuals experience the world. The challenge lies in shifting from a perspective of judgment to one of curiosity and empathy, recognizing that emotional responses are complex and influenced by a multitude of factors. By embracing emotional variance, society can create a more supportive and accepting environment for individuals to express their authentic selves, regardless of how their emotions align with perceived norms.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common questions and concerns related to sentiments expressed in the query “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies.” The aim is to provide clear and informative answers, promoting a better understanding of the complexities surrounding diverse emotional responses to infants.
Question 1: Is it normal to dislike babies, given the societal pressure to find them endearing?
Yes, it is within the range of normal human emotion to not find babies universally endearing. Societal pressure often dictates a positive response; however, individual feelings are shaped by personal experiences, hormonal influences, sensory sensitivities, and individual temperament, all of which contribute to emotional variance.
Question 2: Does disliking babies indicate a lack of empathy or a moral failing?
No, disliking babies does not inherently indicate a lack of empathy or a moral failing. Emotional responses are complex and influenced by multiple factors. Personal experiences and neurological differences, not a deficiency in character, can contribute to feelings of aversion.
Question 3: What can cause someone to dislike babies?
Potential causes include negative personal experiences during childhood, heightened sensory sensitivities, hormonal imbalances, and a strong need for individual autonomy. These factors can shape emotional responses to infants, resulting in feelings of dislike or discomfort.
Question 4: How can someone manage feelings of guilt associated with disliking babies?
Guilt can be mitigated through self-awareness, acceptance of emotional variance, and recognition that personal feelings are valid. Engaging in open and honest discussions, seeking support from online communities, and challenging societal expectations can also help alleviate feelings of guilt.
Question 5: Is there a difference between disliking babies and being unable to care for them?
Yes, there is a distinct difference. Disliking babies refers to a personal sentiment or lack of positive emotion towards them. Being unable to care for them indicates a lack of skills, resources, or capacity to provide adequate care. One can dislike babies and still fulfill caregiving responsibilities, or vice versa.
Question 6: How can individuals navigate social situations when they dislike babies, given societal expectations?
Navigating such situations involves asserting personal boundaries, politely declining involvement in infant-related activities, and focusing on respectful communication. Maintaining a respectful demeanor while acknowledging personal limitations can minimize social discomfort and avoid negative judgment.
In summary, diverse emotional responses to infants are normal and influenced by various factors. Understanding these complexities fosters empathy and encourages acceptance of individual emotional landscapes.
The article will now transition to provide actionable advice on managing feelings.
Tips for Managing Sentiments Related to “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies”
This section provides actionable guidance for individuals grappling with negative feelings towards infants, acknowledging societal pressures, and seeking to navigate their emotions constructively.
Tip 1: Acknowledge and Validate Personal Feelings: It is paramount to recognize that diverse emotional responses are valid. Suppressing feelings of dislike can exacerbate internal conflict. Acknowledge the sentiment without self-judgment, understanding it as a product of individual experiences and sensitivities.
Tip 2: Identify Underlying Causes: Explore potential sources of aversion, such as negative childhood experiences, sensory sensitivities, or hormonal imbalances. Understanding the root cause facilitates more effective management strategies and promotes self-compassion.
Tip 3: Establish and Maintain Personal Boundaries: Determine comfortable levels of interaction with infants and assert boundaries accordingly. Politely decline invitations to activities involving infants if they cause distress. Prioritize personal well-being by limiting exposure to triggers.
Tip 4: Cultivate Self-Compassion: Challenge negative self-talk and replace it with compassionate self-reflection. Recognize that disliking babies does not equate to being a bad person. Practice self-care activities to mitigate feelings of guilt or shame.
Tip 5: Seek Support and Validation: Engage with online communities or support groups where individuals share similar sentiments. Sharing experiences and receiving validation can alleviate feelings of isolation and promote a sense of belonging.
Tip 6: Educate and Communicate Respectfully: When appropriate, educate others about the complexities of emotional responses and advocate for acceptance of diverse perspectives. Communicate personal limitations politely and respectfully, avoiding judgmental or critical language.
Tip 7: Focus on Positive Aspects of Other Relationships: Direct attention and energy towards nurturing relationships with adults and older children. Shifting focus away from infants can reduce feelings of guilt and promote a sense of fulfillment.
Tip 8: Consider Professional Guidance: If negative feelings are persistent, distressing, or interfering with daily life, seek guidance from a mental health professional. Therapy can provide coping mechanisms and strategies for managing emotional challenges.
Consistently applying these strategies can promote emotional well-being and facilitate more constructive navigation of personal feelings towards infants.
The article now transitions to a concluding summary.
Conclusion
This article has explored the multifaceted dimensions of the query “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies,” elucidating the psychological and sociological factors that contribute to this sentiment. The examination has encompassed societal pressure, personal experiences, hormonal influences, sensory overload, individual autonomy, acceptance seeking, guilt mitigation, and emotional variance. Each element serves as a contributing factor to the complex tapestry of individual feelings towards infants. The discussion emphasizes that diverse emotional responses are a natural consequence of varied personal histories and neurological predispositions.
Ultimately, it is imperative to foster a societal environment that respects individual emotional landscapes and acknowledges the validity of diverse feelings, even those that deviate from perceived norms. The willingness to engage in open and honest dialogue about emotional variance, challenging societal expectations and judgments, can contribute to increased empathy and a more inclusive understanding of human emotions. The conversation concerning feelings toward babies will continue in years to come. The future is not predetermined in regards to “reddit is it ok that i dislike babies”. It all comes down to us.
