Aww, babies. They’re so precious. And we want to do the very best job taking care of them. We want to make the best choices so they’re healthy and happy. There are some tough decisions we have to make when a baby comes into our lives. Like, will we breastfeed our babies or bottle feed? Will we let the babies sleep in our beds or will we let them sleep in their own cribs? Will we circumcise our sons or will we leave the foreskin? Will we pierce our newborn baby’s ears or let them make that decision for themselves when they are old enough?
You will come to these decisions based on family traditions, religious reasons, and lots of research. Sometimes the decision will be easy. Other times, you will agonize over what to do. But you will make a decision based on what is best for your baby, for your family.
Then, you may decide to share your decision with your family and friends. They’ll respect your decision, because they know you want the best for your child, right? Unfortunately, that may not be the case. You may find that your decision angers your best friend or your mom or someone else in your life. And you may be confused, hurt or even angry. I decided that the choices I made weren’t up for debate. Sure, I’d have a conversation about breastfeeding or about circumcision or about spanking. I am not opposed to sharing ideas and understanding where people are coming from on a particular subject. However, my decisions as a mother and what is best for my child aren’t up for debate. I never felt I owed anyone an explanation about why I chose to breastfeed my children or why I didn’t want to get an epidural or why I chose to pierce my daughter’s ears. If you enjoy debate and want to persuade people that your way is the best way, then by all means, go for it! But remember, it’s always okay to tell people that your parenting decisions are none of their business.
Check out the Huggies Mommy Answers Facebook app!
Find more posts from bloggers sharing their experiences of motherhood on the Huggies page on BlogHer.com.
Dear Y,
As a Marine mom I want to commend you for the brave face you are putting on for your Marine and for the encouraging letters you are sending, he needs them and he will get through it. For your son, Stay Strong and know that you WILL make it by the Grace of God and your own ability. Believe in yourself and the values that your parents instilled in you, you are a Marine (although not officially yet, lol) Semper Fi and God Bless you all.