Mother's Day is a day dedicated to honoring mothers, motherhood, and those gentle caretakers in our everyday lives who offer guidance, reassurance, and a steady place to land. It's a chance to express gratitude for the love, care, and sacrifices that these folks make for those they love. While the dates and traditions vary around the world, the sentiment of celebrating remains universal. With the date nearing, let’s look at a little history, and some modern updates to the holiday.
Origins in the US
The modern incarnation of Mother's Day can be traced back to Anna Jarvis in the early 1900s. Jarvis, who herself was very close to her mother, campaigned for a special day to recognize mothers. Her efforts paid off, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation designating the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day.
Interestingly, Jarvis later came to oppose the commercialization of the holiday, believing it had become too gift-focused, and that the growing materialistic outlook on the day detracted from its true meaning.
So how can we stick to traditions while also making the day special for those motherly individuals in our lives without so much wrapping paper?Â
Traditions and Celebrations
Mother's Day traditions vary greatly across cultures, but there are some common threads that unite most celebrations. Here on the Cape, we’ve put a bit of a coastal twist on tradition as well.Â
Family gatherings:Â Many families choose to celebrate with a special meal or outing. As temperatures in the northeast rise, this could look like a trip to the playground, museum, or botanical garden. A walk along the beach to scout for seals and sea glass is a favorite of Cape Codders.
Charitable acts:Â Some people donate to charities that support mothers or families in need. Here on the Cape, that could look like volunteering with one of the many local organizations that benefit the community - does your mom have a favorite?
Handmade gifts:Â A heartfelt card, a framed photo, or a piece of artwork can be cherished keepsakes.Â
Breakfast in bed:Â Treat mom to a relaxing morning with her favorite breakfast foods. Just remember that clean-up is also part of the gift!
Help with chores: Take on some of mom's usual tasks to give her a well-deserved break. Maybe send her out for one of those beach walks while you’re at it!
Spend quality time: The most important gift of all is simply spending quality time with mom, doing something she enjoys. Although, if she requests it, it might be just as important for her to spend some quality time alone. If there’s a mother in your life who has expressed interest in spending the day solo, offer to take the kids on a fun outing or have them over for a sleepover to give that mom a much-needed break.Â
Mother's Day is a time to celebrate the incredible women who help raise us, nurture us, and love us unconditionally. Take some time this year to show your mom how much you appreciate her!
Whatever you choose to do on this day, know that fellow Moms Deanna, Mariah, Beverly, and Lori are all thinking of you and hoping you enjoy!Â
You can find information on the origins of Mother's Day in the United States, including Anna Jarvis's role, on websites like History Channel https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=k64ttIyUFvs and the National Women's History Alliance https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/.
To learn more about how Mother's Day is celebrated around the world, Britannica offers a good starting point https://www.britannica.com/question/How-did-Mothers-Day-start.