Just when did being a mom become a competitive sport? This magazine cover followed on the heels of
Amy Chua's book....which was then followed by a New York Times article about Wendy Murdoch (yep, Rupert's wife) consulting Chua on child rearing. It was several columns with photos..really, like this is news. This simply feeds the insecurity of mothers.
I have met mothers on five of seven continents, and I can say with some confidence that they all want to be the best moms they can be...even those who are poorly prepared and poorly supported. We all want the best for our babies.
Now everyone ELSE (not experts by any means) has an opinion that they feel obliged to put forth. It was one thing when your mother or your great-aunt felt entitled to give her advice...now it's everyone.
Breastfeed. Breastfeed for three months. Don't breastfeed. Solid food. No solid food. Circumcise. Do not circumcise. Juice. No Juice. Sleep in your bed. Do not sleep in your bed. Inoculate. Do not inoculate. Spank. Don't you dare spank. Get a job. Stay at home. Daycare. No daycare. Sports. No contact sports.
It's time to step back. Support, inform mothers....don't harass them. This is NOT a competition.
This simple symbol can indicate a safe zone. "It's okay to nurse your baby here. Or not. We respect your desire to nurture your baby."
Love the idea of a safe zone!
ReplyDeleteFantastic idea Diane, we can use this!
ReplyDeleteHere, here! Simple, but so important.
ReplyDeleteWow Diane, you said in your earlier post that creating this symbol showed you how passionate you were about this topic; your quilt reflects that passion. I love the line drawing and the movement of the piece.
ReplyDeleteClean, clear, concise for a very emotive topic Diane.
ReplyDeleteReally wish this symbol had been around when I was nursing my children! Back then we were bucking the tide of bottle feeding and we could have used a "safe zone".
ReplyDelete