MOTHER’S DAYMother’s Day is Sunday, May 11. The tradition of honoring mothers dates back to ancient Greece. In the United States, credit for the holiday as we know it today is given to two women. In 1870, Julia Ward Howe who wrote "Battle Hymn of the Republic" led a campaign to end war and celebrate peace and motherhood. In 1908, Anna Jarvis honored her mother who had died the previous year by handing out carnations (her mother’s favorite flower) to all mothers in her church in Grafton, West Virginia. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday in May as a national day to celebrate mothers who had lost sons in the war.
Motherhood is deeply entrenched in our society. While each of us has obviously had our own personal experience with our mother, or in some cases with another woman who assumed the role of "mother," the importance these women have played in our lives is one of lasting importance. Generally they are believed to be the nurturers of their family; and, as such, of society in general. Traditions vary in each family, but popular ways to honor moms include treating her to a meal and showering her with flowers, candy, and other gifts. Many of us in the Carolinas spent Mother’s Day right here at Ocean Drive! In the 60’s and 70’s it was a popular weekend for high school and college kids to come to the beach. Our poor mothers were left at home, except the one who chaperoned, while we were shagging away on Ocean Boulevard! (Chaperoned? My how times have changed!) Perhaps they were relieved to have some quiet time…it is more probable that they kept their hurt feelings to themselves. Many of us only had to grow up and have our own children to realize the importance of motherhood! A funny email is circulating now about lessons our mothers taught us. A few quips… "My mother taught me RELIGION…You better pray that comes out of the carpet!" "My mother taught me LOGIC…Because I said so, that’s why!" "My mother taught me IRONY…Keep crying, and I’ll give you something to cry about!" "My mother taught me about ANTICIPATION…Just wait until your father gets home!" "My mother taught me about JUSTICE…One day you’ll have kids, and I hope they turn out just like you!" If you’re fortunate to still have your mother, you are blessed indeed. If not, spend some quiet time remembering her on Sunday. |
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