Any mother would go to great lengths to ensure that their child is well cared for, including ensuring that they are fed on time. This holds true for breastfed babies as well. When they are hungry, it is their mother’s responsibility to feed them, whether they are at home or in a public place. The problem is that many mothers who choose to breastfeed their children in restaurants or other public places are met with judgmental stares and people who believe what they are doing is completely wrong.
Jackie Johnson-Smith is a stay-at-home mom with three children, two of whom are older, and her youngest, whom she still breastfeeds, is only 12 months old. Jackie’s birthday had arrived, and she wanted to spend it with her loving family. “I don’t usually go downtown for dinner because a lot of places aren’t family-friendly, but I’d heard good things about Fong’s,” Johnson-Smith explained.
When it came time to nurse her baby, this mother was nervous because she didn’t know how people would react. “I don’t usually breastfeed in public because people can be judgmental,” Jackie explained. “The waitress kept passing by, and I was concerned that she didn’t want me nursing in the restaurant.” The waitress’s reason for walking back and forth between the family’s table was not to pass judgment on Jackie. On the contrary, she was all praise for the brave mother.
When the family received the bill, they noticed something written on it. ‘I purchased one of your pizzas. Thank you for breastfeeding, your wife!’ “I was in complete shock and started crying,” Jackie said. “It felt like the universe was patting me on the back after dealing with people’s reactions for so long.” I was too taken aback to return inside and thank the waitress.”
This experience made Jackie feel good about herself because she knew there were people who believed in what she was doing. “I breastfed three children… I’ve breastfed them in a plethora of settings, both pleasant and unpleasant, both discreetly and openly. I’ve gotten a lot of looks and stares, but tonight erases any negativity I’ve ever gotten. Tonight was my first time eating at Fongs. With a fussy baby, I nursed him in the booth for a while before leaving the table early so as not to disrupt the restaurant.
My husband received this receipt from the waitress. I was speechless and moved to tears. Although I don’t think I deserve a pat on the back for feeding my child, it sure felt good. It’s incredible how empowered we women can make each other feel.” It appears that the adage “it takes a village to raise a child” is correct. Being supportive of one another creates a community of happy people, which is all that the world requires.
We are grateful for what the waitress did because breastfeeding a hungry baby needs to be accepted as normal, rather than unusual. We would, however, like to hear your thoughts on the matter. Do you mind eating at a restaurant where a mother is nursing her child? Please share to encourage others to express their gratitude to those who put their lives in danger every day to keep us safe.