I feel badly that our words are hurting each other.  Let's remember that
we are all working for the same end...to make breastfeeding a cultural
norm, to let mothers have the breastfeeding experience they desire and to
raise healthy children.  If we here on LACTNET don't stick together
surely we can't expect others in our field (not  privy to this wonderful
resource) will have tolerance for the viewpoints of others.  We may
disagree about how to get to the goal but the goal is the same
nonetheless...maybe, just maybe there is more than one way to reach the
goal?  PLEASE lets support each other the best we can and when we can't
agree with the viewpoint expressed try to understand that the other
person may be frustrated and not know how to improve the situation except
for taking baby steps.  Sometimes those baby steps make more progress
than the giant step that is rejected or seen as fanatical.  As for me, my
justification for working at WIC (when I get depressed about all the
formula given out) is to know that if I weren't there I don't know who
would be, at least I know that the info and support that I give is
accurate, informational and delivered with compassion and respect.  In
LLL we talk about "planting the seed".  If I deliver my information in a
way that is not offensive and respectful I know the next time that mother
gets pregnant (and she will ;-) ) she will think about the "nice lady
that told her about breastfeeding" the last time.  We all have different
techniques that fit our different personalities.  Please lets respect
that we all have a similar base of knowledge and are working for the same
goal.

Ilene Fabisch, IBCLC, LLLL, WIC Bfing Coodinator, Northeast Region Rep
BPC NAWD
Brockton, MA

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