Jane Pedler, Union City, New Jersey

Originally published in Garden Statements (LLL New Jersey) and reprinted in the January-February 1978 issue of La Leche League News.

Editor’s Note: The first issue of La Leche League News, the bimonthly publication for members, was published in 1958. The name changed to New Beginnings in 1985. New Beginnings continued to be published by La Leche League International until it was transferred to LLL USA in 2010. In 2014, it transitioned to its current blog format at www.lllusa.org/blog/.

Quietly, in the very early morning when the city is still asleep and all is dark, my four-month-old baby burrows against me. Drowsily I nurse him, both arms enclosing him in a protective grip of love. Then the rain that’s been threatening all through the night begins. The water pours down from the sky in a sudden flood, furious and intense; the drops pouring on the metal awnings intensify the sound to an almost frightening degree.

The baby releases my breast and listens. It’s the first time he’s ever actually listened to the sounds of a storm. His brow wrinkles in concentration, he cocks his head. Will he cry? Certainly the storm sounds scary enough. But, no—his eyes lock into mine, and in the dim light I see his tiny face bloom into a dimpled smile. Then he sighs and goes back to his drinking. Right now, my nursing baby can know no fear, as long as my arms enclose him. A precious time—a short time in the span of child raising—but one to be appreciated to the fullest. It’s that perfect trust—perfect love that transcends all fear.

Please send your story ideas to Amy at [email protected].

Supporting Breastfeeding Families–Today, Tomorrow, Always

Please consider donating to La Leche League USA.

Donations of any amount are gratefully accepted, and for a minimum gift of $25 your special message of congratulations, encouragement, or appreciation can be published in New Beginnings Blog.

Thank you!