Women’s Work

On May 12, 2008, China was ravaged by a powerful earthquake that killed thousands and left even more homeless. People from all over the world are rushing to give aide in whatever ways they can.

For Jiang Xiaojuan, that meant feeding orphaned newborns and infants. She fed them what is known to be the healthiest food for infants. A food that prevents illness, is loaded in nutrients, is the perfect temperature, and has even proven to increase the child’s IQ. Unfortunately, some have admonished her for her selfless actions. Why? Because her magic food came from her breast.

Sadly, most of her critics come from the United States. Our culture is horrified by breastfeeding while most other cultures embrace it.

These precious infants have been cold and dehydrated under a pile of rubble without the warmth and comfort of their mother’s arms. What would her critics have her do?

Mixing formula with area water is now dangerous because of contamination caused by the quake. Or, perhaps her detractors would have preferred she use unsterilized bottles loaded with cow’s milk.

I don’t understand our culture sometimes. Why do people think that a cow’s milk is better than Mom’s milk , which was designed by God to feed human babies? How can one imagine that scientifically designed formulas are better than the milk that has endured thousands of years of evolution? I understand a mom’s choice to use formula if for some reason she can’t breastfeed her child. What I don’t understand is why some people are so grossed out by those who choose to breastfeed.

Jiang, I think what you are doing is compassionate and beautiful. If my child is ever alone and scared and hungry, please help him in the best way you can, with whatever supplies you have handy. Even if all you have available is your warm loving arms and your breast. Given the opportunity, I will do the same for your precious child.