@jespah,
Oh Jespah, as usual, I was going to write the first thing you said.
oldsoula - as said above, children, if you don't want them, Especially if you don't want them, are not a necessity in life.
I do differ with Jes on one thing though. Saying it's not selfish. Sure, sometimes it can be unselfish, but many times it is. That's not a problem either. I'll gladly admit that I am too selfish to have kids. I've had a few people over the years (people who I didn't even really know at all) tell me that. It really takes the wind out their sails when you immediately agree.
I am curious as to your age.
Yes, counseling may be a very good idea for you. It can help you work through some of the grief of loosing your mom.
IMO, it is totally fine for people to go through periods, or even permanently live happily without having some special person in their lives.
For unconditional love, there's nothing like a pet. May be a good place to start.