[CalmlyAndrogynous]

Yes, it is a form of possession, but it is mutual and given (I hope) willingly. A lot of symbolism there, going way back before Christianity and Judaism.

Don't know if you have kids, but would you not regard them as yours?

I always think of the interesting fact that a familial blood relationship is created between two previously unrelated people by the act of parenthood. Maybe divorce would occur less frequently if parents realised that they are in fact related to one another by virtue of their children.

I'm guessing you must be fairly young. Everyone is so over-sensitised nowadays by the political correctness claptrap. (lights fuse and retires).

B.

(sssssssssssssssssssssss fizzle) Nah, not going to explode.

For me, this is not about political correctness, but just how I feel about a phrase. A bit past the half-century mark, I don't think I still qualify for young, but then you are only as young as you feel.

I have grown up kids and I have no problem with the term, my children.

But do I want my daughter to become "a wife". I want her to find a life partner under terms in which they cherish each other equally, support each other, and do their best for each other such that they both flourish.

Something subtle in my mind has attached it to my internal definition of wife which does not mesh with that ideal.