Jean,

You wrote, "One of the truly great functions of Lactnet to permit an exchange
like this!"

I believe that is the "miracle" of Lactnet.  We have people from around the
world, who can give us a wide variety of thought, point us to information,
and offer us the ability to feel a part of a breastfeeding community.

We should not be afraid of differences of opinion, "argument."  Argument is
the soul of knowledge.  We have to know both sides before we can understand.
And actually there are not two sides to an issue but a variety of viewpoints.
 What bothers me is that often there is a belief that knowledge is set in
stone, that what we know now is the truth.

One of the hardest things for me in getting older is that in a variety of
areas, what I took as "truth" twenty years ago is now considered "false" or
irrelevant.  It shakes me to the core because my reality was based on that
supposed truth.  I now have a great deal of understanding when I come across
people in the medical profession and other professions as well, who are
basing their professional approach on information that has biten the dust.
It's hard to rewrite the basis of your initial understanding.

Observation is so vital in the clinical practice of lactation consulting.
And I think you, Jean, are a keen observer.  Your observations and your
ability to write so clearly have enriched this list.  Your questioning, too,
has enlivened discussions in regard to the functioning of the nipple and
breast.

We certainly have a wonderful community called Lactnet.  Our differences, our
viewpoints enliven and enrich our knowledge.  It's great to be a part of this
community!  Valerie W. McClain, IBCLC






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