Mother’s Day: Honoring the Pillars of Love and Strength
Mother’s Day: Sun, 11 May, 2025
May 9, 2025: Mother’s Day is a cherished celebration dedicated to honoring mothers and mother figures around the world for their unwavering love, sacrifices, and pivotal role in shaping individuals and societies. Observed in many countries on different dates, the sentiment behind the day remains universal—recognizing and appreciating the profound impact mothers have on our lives.
History of Mother’s Day
The roots of Mother’s Day can be traced back to ancient civilizations:
Ancient Greece and Rome held festivals in honor of mother goddesses like Rhea and Cybele.
Early Christians celebrated “Mothering Sunday” on the fourth Sunday of Lent, a day to return to the “mother church.”
The modern Mother’s Day we recognize today originated in the United States:
Anna Jarvis is credited with founding Mother’s Day in the early 20th century. She held the first official Mother’s Day in 1908 to honor her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, a peace activist.
In 1914, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the second Sunday of May as a national holiday to celebrate mothers.
Ironically, Anna Jarvis later denounced the commercialization of the holiday she created, lamenting the loss of its original, sincere purpose.
Significance of Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is not just about flowers, cards, or social media posts—it’s a heartfelt opportunity to express gratitude for:
Unconditional Love: A mother’s love is often the most selfless and nurturing force.
Sacrifice and Dedication: From sleepless nights to lifelong support, mothers often put others before themselves.
Guidance and Strength: Mothers play a crucial role in instilling values, discipline, and emotional strength.
It also serves as a moment to acknowledge all forms of motherhood, including single mothers, adoptive mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers, and guardians.
Global Observances and Traditions
Though celebrated globally, Mother’s Day customs vary by country:
| Country | Date Celebrated | Unique Traditions |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Second Sunday of May | Breakfast in bed, handmade cards, family outings |
| United Kingdom | Fourth Sunday of Lent | Known as “Mothering Sunday,” celebrated with flowers |
| India | Second Sunday of May | Growing recognition through cards, gifts, and gestures |
| Japan | Second Sunday of May | Children gift red carnations and draw pictures of mom |
| Mexico | May 10th | Serenades, flowers, and family feasts |
| Ethiopia | During fall (Antrosht Festival) | A multi-day celebration with singing and traditional meals |
Thoughtful Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day
Whether simple or grand, the best celebrations are personal and sincere:
Write a heartfelt letter expressing your appreciation.
Cook her favorite meal or treat her to a day off from chores.
Create a scrapbook or photo album of cherished memories.
Spend quality time together doing something she loves.
Donate to a cause in her name, such as women’s shelters or maternal health charities.
Offer acts of service, especially for elderly or working mothers.
Remembering Mothers Who Have Passed
For many, Mother’s Day can be a bittersweet time. Honoring a late mother can be healing and meaningful through:
Lighting a candle or visiting her favorite place.
Sharing stories with family or writing a journal entry.
Donating to causes she supported.
The Spirit of Motherhood Beyond Biology
Motherhood is not confined to biology. On Mother’s Day, we also celebrate:
Teachers and mentors who nurture minds.
Aunts, older sisters, and foster mothers who provide love and care.
Community caregivers who embody maternal compassion.
Conclusion
Mother’s Day is more than a calendar date—it’s a tribute to the women who nurture life, dreams, and humanity itself. Whether near or far, living or remembered, our mothers deserve our deepest respect and gratitude.
Take the time to honor the one who gave you the world—because every day is a chance to say:
“Thank you, Mom.”