19 years ago when I chose to breast-feed my daughter it was not nearly as popular as it has become today. I was surprised by the opposition and negative comments that I received from both friends and family alike. Yet, somewhere in my inner being, I found the strength to be what felt like the lone island in my decision and stick to it. Just reading of the health benefits for my baby alone gave me the inspiration that I needed to remain steadfast in my decision.

Looking back I find that there are few other decisions that I've made in my life that were more important than that one for many reasons. In particular I am convinced that it is that most natural process that serves not just the child in terms of nutrition and health but that serves the relationship of mother and child for a lifetime.

Nature makes no mistakes! And nearly every natural act serves multi-layered purposes of positive outcome. I believe that breastfeeding nurtures a mother's instincts for what to do and how to do it in raising her child. I am convinced that it strengthens her motherly instincts! I believe that the bonding experienced by the child lays the foundation for an innate appreciation for the mother. I'm not saying that children who were not breast fed do not appreciate their mothers but  I do believe the natural process of breast-feeding enhances the bond of that relationship.

I chose to breast-feed  for a year and a half inspite of others expressing a near disgust for what is something so common sense to do. And I remain steadfast and an advocate for the reality that you cannot improve upon nature!

I'll always remain confused by why anyone would feed their most precious bundle an inferior product to a superior one... that costs a whole lot less and miss out on the wonderful benefits that reverberate for many years to come!