So, perhaps you've heard the news about the sculpture being shown in Norman, Oklahoma this week. Obviously, the piece is shy on modesty and discretion...I assume that was most of the artist's objective. However, I applaud the attempt to energize the discussion of breastfeeding in public.
I am currently nursing an infant for the sixth time. I have been encouraged by pediatricians, pressured by lactation consultants, and understood by like-minded friends. Other than that, breastfeeding has always made me feel like a social outcast.
When running errands, my choice is to limit the trip to just a couple hours or find a place to nurse. In winter, the car works fine. But last month I was in L'view shopping and it came time to nurse. I went to the car out of habit, but it was 104 degrees in the shade and the car was NOT an option. I began to brainstorm and drive around to find some suitable place. "Do I go to Books-a-Million?" "What about the corner booth at Wendy's?" "WHERE should I go?"
I ended up in the dark, cool, unoccupied lobby of La Quinta. (pretty genius, huh?) I walked in with my infant carrier, and asked the clerk if I could sit for a few minutes in the empty breakfast room. Both ladies behind the front desk seemed pleased to offer the surplus space.
The challenge continues even at church. Unless I wish to pump regularly, I am unable to attend both Bible Study and Worship Service on Sunday mornings without nursing. There's really no appropriate place to do this. Contrary to its name, the "nursery" is a hubbub of activity with all rockers occupied by caregivers. I typically end up in a vacant Sunday School room sitting on the floor against the door in solitude.
I nursed Elizabeth the other day at the ballpark. I covered both of us with a blanket but still shuddered with anxiety as a strong breeze flirted with our veil. I was overcome with dread that someone might catch a flash of my brazier or a glimpse of flesh. But then I looked around and saw half a dozen teenage girls on "bra strap parade" with cheeks hanging out of screen printed shorts. So perhaps public breastfeeding is not so big a deal. Perhaps it is, but remains a noble choice considering the gutterish standards for "public display".
What's a modest momma to do?
