Who Will Be Lucky Number 300,000,000?

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

News reporters have been dispatched to hospitals throughout the country. Some expectant mothers are asking their doctor's to induce them. While other overdue moms-to-be are trying to stave off labor... at least for another 40 hours or so. Pregnant moms across the nation know what's at stake. An historic milestone is approaching: a baby born in the next two days will become the 300-millionth American.

My friend and I were discussing this topic the other day and finally concluded (after nearly 2 hours) that we are simply on opposite sides of the spectrum when it comes to deciding whether the occasion is a significant milestone. I maintain it is. She thinks otherwise. I look at it this way: who wouldn't want their child to be one for the record books (besides my friend)?

Sure, we all think the births of our children are historic moments, but can you imagine how "special" this special delivery will be? My friend sees it cynically, I mean, differently. She maintains that it is almost impossible to pinpoint the actual baby that hits the record, so why bother.

My friend does have a point. In the past, census estimates and birth records have been used to figure out who is closest. Currently, the U.S. Census is predicting that the 300 millionth American will be born by tomorrow morning. The population is already about 299 million, 990 thousand. The 200 millionth baby was born way back in 1967 and it's estimated baby number 400-million won't be born until the year 2040.

All those figures play in my favor. I feel they aid my argument that giving birth to the 300 millionth American is quite an honor. I'm not sure if the title comes with privileges, like say, 300 million free diapers or 300 million chocolate cigars. But, whoever he or she happens to be... I hope the delivery is smooth and baby No. 300,000,000 is healthy.

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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