The World is Not "One Size Fits All"

Each and every person is different; there are no two people that are exactly the same. This is why people do not fit into a "one size fits all" mold. In all aspects of my life, but especially in my doula work, I strive to keep an open mind in order to learn more about other's views on various topics. I believe in the right to one's opinion and believe that even with opposing views, people can live cohesively. I value the ability to form my own opinions. I encourage people to develop their own views and support them in their choices, regardless if they are the same as mine. 

All of this brings me to a topic that is currently on my mind: breastfeeding. With world breastfeeding week in full force, it is important to remember that breastfeeding is not for everyone. There are some people that choose not to breastfeed and there are others that are unable to regardless of how much they try. Breastfeeding is also not always easy, it can be tiresome, painful, and binding. Breastfeeding is not the only way for a child to be fed, there are other wonderful options available. The most important thing is that babies are fed. 

I am currently a breastfeeding mother and I value that I am able to share this journey with my daughter. Today I participated in my local community's "Big Latch On" and the reason behind my decision to do this was to bring awareness to public breastfeeding. There have been numerous times when I have needed to breastfeed in public. My daughter has never been one that would stand to be covered up; she will cry, not eat, and struggle to remove the cover. I have been very fortunate to be surrounded by people who are supportive or unconcerned about my public nursing and just hope that every other person breastfeeding receives the same. 

Thanks for reading, 
-Aubrey McMillan