Hey there, my friend!
You know I’m all about that alternative lifestyle – the kind that embraces natural parenting and believes that babies know best. I can juggle baby-wearing, shopping for organic snacks, and brewing my latest batch of kombucha like a pro. If we were back in the ’60s, you’d definitely call me a free spirit.
But there’s one topic we tend to tiptoe around: vaccines. My kids are fully vaccinated, while yours have never felt the prick of a needle.
We avoid the vaccine discussion for the same reason you steer clear of politics with that one family member who never stops talking conspiracy theories—there’s just no common ground. I trust the science behind vaccinations. I’ve read the labels, sifted through the studies, and even delved deep into the controversies. I ultimately decided to follow the guidance of the CDC, the AAP, the WHO, and my son’s epidemiologist godmother: we vaccinate.
On the other hand, I know you have your reasons for not vaccinating. You might trust different sources, which I personally see as misguided, but I respect your right to seek out information. I value our friendship too much to settle for the old “to each their own” cliché. I genuinely believe my choice is right and yours is mistaken.
But hey, our friendship doesn’t have to turn into a wrestling match over this. I don’t want the measles outbreaks to put a strain on our bond, so let’s be clear about a few things.
First and Foremost, I Care About You
I’m not a fan of diseases, though—one case of measles within a 500-mile radius, and my kids will be avoiding unvaccinated playmates like the plague (pun intended). This isn’t about judging your parenting; it’s about keeping my kids safe. You might think I’m overreacting, but just roll with it, okay?
Measles is incredibly contagious, and I stress about it just like you worry about vaccine side effects. I’m sure you understand the instinct to protect your own, which is why we’re having this conversation. So, be prepared for a few missed playdates in the near future!
We’ve got this unwritten agreement, as all mamas do, to keep sick kids at home. But when it comes to unvaccinated children, things are a bit different. I need to be cautious about what your kids might be carrying. If you’ve been visiting Aunt Wheezy, please don’t invite my little ones over.
I know, it’s probably not whooping cough. And yes, I can hear you thinking, “But your kids are vaccinated, so what’s the big deal?” Without diving into a debate on vaccine efficacy, just let me have this one. It’s a simple gesture of friendship.
Communication is Key
And hey, if you’re planning to attend a chickenpox party, please give me a heads-up! Varicella can be contagious before symptoms arise, so I’d like to know if we should keep our distance during that incubation period.
In return, I promise to keep you informed about when my kids get their vaccinations. I understand your concerns about vaccine shedding. We might disagree on what’s considered a risk, but I’ll let you know when my kids receive live vaccines like MMR or varicella. I think it’s safe, but I know you worry.
Most importantly, I promise not to be a jerk about this. I may disagree with your perspective, but we can still be friends, even when we see things differently. Think of political commentators from opposite sides who still manage to stay married! I’ll remain respectful in conversations about vaccines and hope for the same from you.
Let’s Keep Our Friendship Strong
Let’s keep this friendship strong while navigating our differing choices. After all, we’re both just parents trying to do what we think is best for our kids.
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In summary, let’s keep our friendship intact while we navigate these differing views on vaccination. I care about you and your choices, and I hope we can respect each other’s perspectives.