Why is it okay for other people my age to have kids, but apparently not for me?

The fact that you have gone on about a "hypothetical" tells alot about you. You seem IMMATURE. Maturity affects a lot of decisions you make as a parent. Regardless of where you have pulled yourself from, it only says you are responsible. My 8 yr old is responsible. There is a difference between having a baby and being a parent. Maybe you should ask your friends what qualities they feel you are lacking to be a parent; and be willing to take this criticism at face value. It could tell you much about how other people perceive you.