Fair Trade?

So the question that has been bothering me for the last few weeks has been the trade for one life for another.  Not delving into the death penelty, but I wonder when a human adult has a child and decides to pour their entire life into their child, does society better itself by this trade? Parent for Child?

We all know people that have made sacrifices for their children, and my question is when a person abandons their dreams to provide for their child - is that a selfish and, dare I say, a cowardly decision?  Isn't it easier to focus one's efforts simply  on making money for your children than exploring what you truly want to do?  I argue that it is. 

This may tie into the great self discovery that one does throughout their life, but I posit that the search for yourself is much harder than grinding out a salary.  That being said, which one benefits society more in a utilitarian sense? I don't know.

Not to say that own personal philosphy is completely utilitarian, but the process of reproduction in modern times kind of facinates me.  Personally,  I can't wait to have children, but I imagine that when I do, I will more focused on my children's growth than my own.  And as a continually evolving being, will this leave with regrets?  Will I be able to reconcile, this fact?  Will I resent the child? I hope I don't, but I feel that the majority of people in this life make their living by other means than what they truly want to do. 

What did Langston Hughes remark on a dream deferred?  Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?  The only thing that gives me comfort from quoting Langston Hughes in my blog (which I acknowledge is pretty ridiculous) is that Puffy played the lead role in a made for TV movie only a few weeks ago...