Hard-core Lactivist

I had grown fearful lately that I had nothing to write about in this space. Had I grown so content with my life that I didn’t need this outlet to vent and rant and rave? Was I….happy?

Then - whilst contemplating my more human side, I read this story and it all came back to me. Welcome home.

This woman is claiming her right to breast feed in public was infringed on, and now she’s going after the pool’s owner. Well of course she is.

First – she was politely asked not to feed the baby in the pool. Good Christ, I won’t swim in a public pool let alone drink out of one. And this is a pool for babies – babies who pee themselves on dry land…what do you think they do in a warm pool?

Second – she was offered a number of alternative places for breast feeding, all of which weren’t in the pool. She wasn’t kicked out – just asked not to do it in the water. I’m not allowed to eat a hoagie in the pool, why is this kid? I don’t care how nice the water is, don’t be lazy, walk 10 steps to a chair and feed your kid.

Third – Gross. A public pool? Seriously? What’s next, are you going to let your baby teeth on a subway door handle?

Now I’m amongst those who believe breast feeding in public is fine (great even). Ladies if you choose to feed your baby in public – fair game and more power to you. But shouldn’t the respect you’re afforded go both ways? If someone asks you politely not to breast feed your 20 MONTH OLD baby – that’s actually a 2 year child – in a public swimming pool, then perhaps you should abide.

Plus, your kid is nearly 2 years old and if you keep breast feeding it there are bound to be psychological repercussions down the road. I’m no therapist, but that seems like trouble.

I’m calling for people to put a little perspective around things, because this is really not a big deal. Not everything is a cause to be rallied against. Maybe you just had a difference of opinion and you should move on with your life.