I'm sorry, nursing in public is something I feel very strongly about. I think the more we see women caring for their babies in public and doing so comfortably, the more women will feel comfortable making the decision to have babies and be mothers.What do you think? Is this respectful enough? Does it get my point across that I think forcing a nursing mother to nurse elsewhere may contribute to our culture of intentional childlessness and abortion? I truly want to be respectful of the hypothetical person asking me to leave, but I very firmly believe that welcoming mothers and children into everyday settings is important for these reasons. I'm honestly interested in your opinions, so please share.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Next Time
It's been a couple of years, but I think I have finally figured out what I will say "next time."
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That sounds reasonable to me. I've nursed just about everywhere.
ReplyDeleteSounds very respectful to me...and like Mat. Anna, I've unapologetically nursed everywhere ! Why should we hide to feed our children ? crazy.
ReplyDeleteI'd never be offended by that, but then again I'd never object. It seem very respectful and honest to me.
ReplyDeleteSounds reasonable to me.
ReplyDeleteSh. Patty, I don't know whether anyone can answer that question unless they know you very well. I could see someone being offended by the comment if I were to say it. For one, as you obviously know, tone makes a huge difference (and if someone asked me I would have a hard time watching my tone), but also the way we are perceived by others makes an impact in how a response is taken. People usually see me as a quiet, submissive type, so I would have to add the modifier "so" to sorry and leave out the word "strongly" and say it is something I'm emotional about instead. But there is nothing wrong with what you said semantically if it is your personality. And I certainly agree with your point, and am thankful for people such as you who stand up for this worthy cause. Much love in Christ, leah
ReplyDeleteYou're not going to make everyone happy, no matter what you do. You have to make the best choices you can; best for you and your family, as well as the community.
ReplyDeleteMy "next time" is coming this year. Please keep me in your prayers. I appreciate having nursing mothers visible!
I have a little card that I carry in my wallet which states that it is the law to be allowed to nurse in public. I've nursed all over the country and have never once had anyone say anything to me. Don't get me wrong, I've gotten lots of looks, but I just smile and try not to let it get to me. Lack of education is the biggest problem. Our children need to eat and be comforted and as mothers, that is our priority.
ReplyDeleteThank you to all of your for your comments and critiques. If I can ever commit this to memory, maybe I'll be set if this ever happens to me again. If not, I'll at least know that I will never be a part of forbidding a woman from meeting her child's needs in this way. :)
ReplyDeleteI too have nursed just about everywhere and, thankfully, have rarely had people comment. If I would get looks, I would often just give a big smile. (Which is not always easy.)
ReplyDeleteI think as much as we nursing mothers can do to change the culture to "breastfeeding anywhere" as the norm -- then we are doing a good thing! Bravo to you for going through the exercise of what you may say, even if it isn't committed to memory you can have a good idea in mind of what you most strongly believe and can verbalize!
This is a lovely blog you have!
Claudine