Mom was feeling uncomfortable to breastfeed baby in cab—the driver’s reaction left her shocked
Stepping into the world of parenting can be challenging for a new mom. Learning to be comfortable in public with the duties the role entails is even tougher. There are many moms out there struggling when it comes to breastfeeding or changing diapers when outdoors because there are not enough amenities. As human beings, even the little we can do to help can mean the world to them. A mom named Yashika Raparia (@baby_led_parenting) shared how a cab driver’s move left her stunned when she was riding with her infant. She wasn’t comfortable breastfeeding in the backseat but had no option and the driver’s gesture made a massive difference.
Raparia recalled sitting in the back seat with her child, realizing it was feeding time. She couldn’t avoid breastfeeding but felt uneasy going about it in the cab. “I was carrying a swaddle to cover myself but still I was not comfortable,” she explained. Her concern stemmed from an observation. “In India, it’s not uncommon for women to feel uneasy in cabs and autos because some drivers misuse their rear-view mirrors to glance at female passengers,” she noted. However, the baby's needs came first so the mom covered up, ready to breastfeed.
“Once he latched and I looked up, I observed something that shocked me (in the best way),” Raparia remarked. The mom noticed that the driver had adjusted his mirror so he could no longer see her in the back seat. The video captured his silent yet powerful way of giving the mom her privacy. “A simple gesture, yet it spoke volumes about his character,” she said. The driver didn’t have to do what he did but decided to help out of thoughtfulness and kindness. It was a soothing experience that boosted the woman.
“For a new mom like me, traveling with a baby and juggling feeding on the go, this small act felt like a big reassurance. At that moment, I wasn’t just another passenger; I was a mother feeling respected and safe in a stranger’s care,” she explained. While she received the much-needed peace, she also learned another life lesson. “This experience reminded me that kindness and respect don’t always need grand gestures. They’re in the quiet choices we make every day,” Raparia said. She commended the driver and men like him who make "women feel safer and show that dignity is a universal language.”
The mom concluded by sharing her hope that such thoughtfulness will become a “norm, not an exception.” This act hit home to many moms. @anju1962 said, “How wonderful that you recognized his heartfelt gesture! It’s a beautiful reminder that kindness and humanity are very much alive in our world.” @sonaliworld added, “This is so nice of him! Touched.” @palaksingh remarked, “When they say 'Not all men', they probably talk about men like him! Such a gentleman.” @slaygenia added, “Literally smiling with joy as I read this! Acts of humanity like this should be shared! He did his bit and you definitely did yours!”
You can follow Yashika Raparia (@baby_led_parenting) on Instagram for more content on parenting and lifestyle.