[batista]

>I still managed to max out my personal IRA as well as hit the match on my employer's 401k. Sure, I was single and living cheaply...but that's the point.

The point is if you're not making enough money don't have a family? Or choose between family/kids etc and retirement?

[polyfractal]

I'm not entirely certain of your statement (grammar), but I think it may also argue for not having a family before you are financially capable of having one.

Having a family is a privilege, not a right. You should only have one when you can afford to house, clothe and feed them as well as contribute to your own retirement. You wouldn't take a vacation to Tahiti if you can't afford to buy bread for yourself to eat...why do people think it's ok to raise a family on a salary that is not sufficient?