Dear Emily, the waitress at the diner who expressed gratitude for my public breastfeeding,
“I just wanted to say how proud I am of you for nursing your baby in public. It takes courage, and I appreciate you for it.”
Your words had a profound impact on me that day, revitalizing my diminishing hope in humanity.
You weren’t aware that we had traveled 40 miles just to reach the nearest grocery store, embarking on a two-hour journey for our monthly shopping trip. Our baby hadn’t nursed since we left home that morning, and this rare outing also served as a family date for my husband and our three little ones. My mood was dampened by the unkind behavior of other shoppers.
Yet, when we arrived that Sunday afternoon, you greeted us with a warm smile and attentive service. After we finished our meal, you approached our table with the check and took a moment to thank me for breastfeeding in public. I listened, astonished, as you shared how you witnessed me feeding my baby shortly after we were seated. You expressed your pride in my natural act, which is often viewed as controversial. You even mentioned how disheartened you feel seeing negative posts about public breastfeeding on social media. Your genuine gratitude left me speechless.
In that moment, I recognized your grace and insight, qualities I would typically associate with someone much older than your 18 years. It was a refreshing contrast to my earlier encounter with a grumpy elderly man who dismissed my smile with a curt “I was here first” as I tried to make room for our carts to pass. I had expected such behavior from my own generation, often labeled as entitled and rude, but not from him. Perhaps he was having a bad day, or perhaps he had grown weary of the world’s rudeness. Regardless, his unkindness left me feeling disillusioned. Still, I chose to remain kind, wondering if this was the example set for younger generations and why they might be labeled as disrespectful.
And then you came along.
Thirteen years my junior and without children yourself, you took the time to commend me for breastfeeding in public. Instead of me expressing thanks for your excellent service, you were the one thanking me. You had no idea how much your words lifted my spirits and rekindled my faith in humanity.
So thank you, Emily, the waitress who acknowledged my choice to breastfeed publicly. Your kindness made all the difference that day!
Warm regards,
Your grateful breastfeeding patron, Sarah
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Summary: In a heartfelt letter, Sarah thanks a young waitress named Emily for her encouraging words about breastfeeding in public, which helped restore her faith in humanity during a challenging day. The encounter contrasts with an earlier negative experience and highlights the importance of kindness and support in everyday interactions.