I guess I am a bit naive. Mrs. Samurai and I didn't have children out of any obligation. I guess it never crossed my mind that obligation would be a reason. Like I said, I'm naive.
For us, having and rearing children is one of the most intimate and rewarding things that we could do. We certainly didn't know what we were doing. Beforehand, we sat down with a Financial Advisor and had a discussion about what we wanted to do for us and for our children. Once we had a plan, we stuck to it as best as we could. We did our best.
Now, many years later, two more little Samurai left in college. We did not get all of the toys we wanted nor travelled everywhere we wanted (yet). That said, it is a personal choice. I don't think there is a right or wrong answer, but I do agree with you that parents should, "damn well better do [their] job and take care of that kid to the best of [their] ability."
Easier said than done...