Everybody has a "soapbox" moment now and then...

I don't often use my blog as a soapbox, but tonight is an exception.  Lately, there has been an ongoing dialogue centered around the topic of breastfeeding- one of the only things about which I'd risk posting a controversial blog.  The modern arguments surrounding this old-as-Adam (or Eve, in this case) natural act have brought out the best in some and the ignorance in others.  Michelle Obama's recent mission to encourage breastfeeding among women who are the most likely to choose formula and least likely to realistically afford it has convinced me that she isn't just composed and well-spoken; she's smart.  She is reaching out to the population at the greatest risk for SIDS and obesity and helping them get the tools they need to breastfeed, which is proven to lower the risk of SIDS as well as obesity.  She's also discouraging the popular practice of paying for formula at the expense of the utility bills.  Her remedy is an obvious one, probably the same one most people would come up with in theory, but she's putting action behind the idea, and I'd be willing to bet that we'll see results.

Unfortunately, not everyone is supporting her efforts.  It seems that people are abandoning their own views of breastfeeding so as not to appear to be "friendly" with the First Lady.  Heaven forbid that we remain true to our values if it means that we might be accused of crossing political lines!  Michele Bachmann, who nursed five of her babies, has taken issue with Michelle Obama's cause.  It's interesting to me, because once you breastfeed ONE baby, you become aware of the undeniable benefits, so I would assume that after FIVE, you would be so keenly aware of the immunity, comfort, attachment and nutrition that breast milk provides, that you would support the effort to help others give that same gift to their children- regardless of your political agenda.  I'm just disappointed.  I've never been a fan of Bachmann, but in my opinion, she's lost all credibility.  Pretending to disagree with a good - no, great- cause just to prove that you don't have a liberal bone on your body doesn't sit well with me.  That's not even good politics.  

I hope these recent efforts encourage more women to breastfeed, even if they only plan to do it for a few weeks.  Chances are, those weeks will turn into months.  It is incredibly beneficial for newborns, and it plays a huge role in the mother/child attachment.  It makes so much sense financially - not just because of what you aren't paying in formula costs, but also, because the immune system benefits, there will be fewer doctor visits to pay for, and fewer missed school days - which means parents won't have to miss work to stay home with a sick child.  It makes sense that most women would choose to breastfeed, but it is so important to remember that while it may be a natural act, women need education and support to get through the first few weeks of nursing.  Natural or not, it isn't always easy, and that's exactly why I am so thankful that someone with such an influential voice is finally addressing these issues.  Hopefully, those that are tangling their view of this administration with their views on the specific subject of breastfeeding will sort out their convictions before they find themselves fighting against a worthy cause, and ultimately, agains themselves.