Massage by Steve has been trending following a viral interview with Oga Obinna, where he openly stated his dislike for children.
Kenyans have been quick to criticize him, but it's important to recognize the hypocrisy in this reaction. Many have positioned themselves as moral arbiters, readily bullying anyone whose views diverge from their own.
In the interview, Steve stated, “I do not love kids. If you bring a child here, I will leave. I don’t have a problem with you loving kids. Why do you have a problem with me not liking them?”
He further elaborated in a social media post, “You love kids; what is the opposite of love? Hate, so yeah, I hate kids.”
But I think we should give him a break for his opinion. Why?
Many Kenyans criticizing Steve would, given the chance, avoid having children themselves. Parenthood is a complex issue, with some people becoming parents due to circumstances such as abuse or failed family planning, rather than choice.
While "hate" might seem like a strong word, it’s important to understand that parenthood is not easy and can bring significant challenges.
Being a parent involves constant sacrifices, and if someone is not prepared for these responsibilities, it can lead to resentment and self-loathing.
Before judging Steve, consider whether your parenthood was a choice or a result of circumstances.
There are many cases where parents have failed their children. Some fathers disappear when faced with the responsibility of a child, while some mothers abandon their kids in search of a better life.
Disturbing incidents, such as a woman in Lugari suffocating her son to save a marriage, or another woman in Eldoret killing her children to please a new lover, highlight the severe consequences of unmet parental responsibilities.
As a mother myself, I have had moments where I questioned my decision to keep my child and wondered how life might have been different. These feelings don’t make me a bad mother, just a human one.
Massage by Steve’s admission of disliking kids doesn’t make him a monster. Not everyone is meant to be a parent, and his preference for older women should be judged without hypocrisy.
Before condemning others, we should reflect on why they express certain views. Let’s give Massage by Steve a break.
Stevo Simple Boy explains 'Kumbavu Zangu Umbwa mimi'