Imagine this: You’re sitting in a cozy pizza shop in Iowa with your family, the aroma of freshly baked pizza wafting through the air. Sounds idyllic, right? But if you’re Jackie Johnson-Smith, this simple dinner turns into a heartwarming story you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Jackie, a dedicated mom who has breastfed not one, not two, but three children, was facing yet another wiggly, cranky baby scenario. We’ve all been there, right? So, she does what any mom would do. She starts breastfeeding her little one right there in the booth. Let’s be real: babies have terrible timing when it comes to their hunger.
Despite having nursed her children in what feels like every possible location on earth—public parks, family events, the occasional grocery store aisle—Jackie still gets her fair share of side-eye and judgmental stares. She’d probably love a round of applause if only it didn’t mean disturbing the peace.
On this particular night, it was her first time dining at Fongs. The baby, true to form, was having none of it and soon became as fussy as a cat in a bathtub. So Jackie made an executive decision. Instead of becoming the star of an impromptu dinner theater, she scooped up her infant and headed for a more private space.
Now, here’s where the plot thickens. While Jackie was busy doing the real hero’s work (we all know it’s not easy), her husband received the dinner bill. But this wasn’t just any bill. Nope, it came with a note from their waitress that left Jackie so emotional she could barely speak.
After sharing this act of kindness on Facebook, Jackie wrote, “It felt fantastic, even though I don’t deserve a pat on the back for feeding my child. It’s incredible how women can empower one another and make each other feel seen.” And who couldn’t agree more?
So, what did this magical note say? Well, it was written by a waitress named Bodi Kinney, who believes in the power of supporting one another, especially when it comes to the challenges of nursing. Bodi told KCCI 8 News, “We need to come together and support each other when it comes to nursing our children.”
Empathy and kindness are what really make the world go round, aren’t they?
This story is a much-needed reminder of the impact small acts of kindness can have. Jackie’s experience shows us that a little support from complete strangers can make all the difference, reassuring us all that we’re not alone in this chaotic dance called parenthood. So, here’s to all the Jackies, and Bodis out there – you’re making the world a better place, one supportive gesture at a time.
