I've been meaning to blog about this.....
Just like any other day of the week, I found myself roaming Target this holiday season. As with most trips, I was not alone. With me was our six-year-old daughter and our infant son.
While walking through the aisles, my son decided to get a little rowdy in his carseat. Once I picked him up, I quickly discovered it was snack time! So what's a breastfeeding mom to do? Yep....I whipped out the boob and let him go to town! If you're one of those people that cringe at the mere thought....let me clarify that I AM one of those moms that wears a nursing cami and throws a burp cloth or blanket over my sons head...but of course, that's more to keep my son focused on the task at hand. Halfway through his feeding session, a woman....a mom with 3 children in tote, stopped me. "Are you breastfeeding?", she asked. Although I was quite amused by her question, I answered with a simple "yes". She begins to commend me for being "able" to breastfeed in public....and not only that, but for doing it so discreetly. She then informed me that there, only an aisle away, was another mom breastfeeding.....with her WHOLE boob hanging out. She was clearly embarrassed!
After our conversation, my daughter looked at me, as to ask, "what's the BIG deal?". So this got me to thinking....what IS the big deal?
I could go on for days about how society and ideas have changed with time....but one thing hasn't...the boob! Let's get real for a second....all women have boobs! They may not all be the same size or shape, but they were placed on our bodies for a reason. To feed our children. Whether you actually choose to breastfeed or not is your personal choice. I do so because it's easy, quick, and by all means...FREE! I can be anywhere, other than driving in my car, and am able to feed my son. Regardless of your feeding choice, don't let the mere sight of a boob embarrass you. Do what you feel is right for you! And if you still can't handle it....look away!
And here's a little inspiration....if this mom can breastfeed in front of her president (President Hugo Chávez of Venezuela) and neither one bat an eye at the situation....well, then why should anyone else?
So it's OK for society to flaunt boobs at every available opportunity but breast feeding in public is taboo? Interesting. I'll be honest and say I don't wanna see boobies all over the place, with or without babies attached to them, but feeding while covered is 1,000% acceptable in my opinion.
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