DEAR ABBY: I am a new mother to a perfect baby boy. Everywhere I go -- the grocery store, my front yard, my daughter's school -- people ask, "You are breastfeeding, right?" Why should it matter to strangers whether or not I'm breastfeeding my baby? It has no effect on them whatsoever. It's a personal decision. What's worse is when I have formula in my shopping cart and someone stops to lecture me about breastfeeding.
Advertisement
People need to stop shaming mothers for using formula and quit asking questions that are none of their business. It's a personal choice and not up for discussion. As long as a mother is feeding her baby, she's doing a great job. -- MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS
DEAR MYOB: As well-meaning as these individuals may be, I agree it is none of their beeswax how you nourish your baby. Why not give them tit for tat? Tell them you plan to raise your baby without their input and you don't appreciate their comments. Then walk on and continue your shopping.