KB says: <I think that our own personal feelings/issues/experiences  about
breastfeeding color the ways in which we practice.>

I agree, BUT...I think any individual also needs to be able to share their
experiences and frustrations among a safe group of peers. Doing so is a bit
of a safety valve, a way to let off some of the steam so that the individual
can be more "rational", less wrought-up, and more effective when dealing
with the appropriate people/institutions/agencies/whatever. A little venting
can clear the way for more constructive action.

I perceive lactnet as a place where it is acceptable to do so, with of
course a degree of moderation and discretion, which I do think is usually
shown here. I don't see this space being abused by any individual. As a
nurse, for example, I am not offended by the occasional rant against us
medical types by those from a different background; I take it for what it
is, an expression of someone's "extreme frustration" or even "defensiveness"
in situations they have encountered. I also recognize the reality at the
center of most of the frustrations I've heard expressed here. And if/when I
(or my profession, or my agency, or my parenting style, or whatever it may
be) feel unfairly attacked or criticized I address the concern, either with
the list or the individual privately, whichever seems more appropriate.

I cannot imagine that anyone who reads even a single "digest", or a series
of postings to this list, could feel that they were being "tarred with one
stick" here. An occasional expression of frustration - yes, sometimes. But
on balance - it's just not what's happening.

My 2 cents' worth this time around...

Cathy Bargar, RN, IBCLC Ithaca NY

             ***********************************************
The LACTNET mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned
LISTSERV(R) list management software together with L-Soft's LSMTP(TM)
mailer for lightning fast mail delivery. For more information, go to:
http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html