Mother's Day

I think that the original thought behind Mother's Day was cool. Admirable. In 1870, Julia Ward Howe proclaimed it as a day when women should come together to denounce war, to plead for peace.

Now, here we are, 138 years later, and we still find ourselves looking to denounce war and plead for peace.

How did it turn into a day for flowers, candy, etc.?

I understand that at some point in history, it got turned into trying to shine a bright, shining light on all that mothers do for those in her life. A mother is never just a mother. She's a maid. She's a cook. She's a medic, teacher, entertainer.

She devotes every waking thought, whether consciously or unconsciously, something related TO motherhood. Did I feed the dog? How many loads of laundry need to get done? Are we out of crackers? Who's got what appointments this week.

It's a constant stream of questions running through her mind.

There are no amount of flowers, chocolates or overpriced brunches that are going to be what most mothers actually want.

What do mothers want?

A BREAK!

Don't tell us Happy Mother's Day, hand us a card or flowers or an iPod, and then go on about your day. Rather, DO something to show your appreciation for all that she DOES. Let her have some time to herself - do the wash - or the dishes. Pick up the shirt you dropped on the floor. DO Something.

Of course, presents are nice. But presents and cards and all that are why this has been named a "hallmark" holiday - empty of meaning except for the card companies, florists and chocolatiers. It shouldn't be just a "hallmark" holiday. Mothers deserve to be lauded for all that they do. But they could also use A BREAK from all that they do. Even if just for a day.

With the holidays coming up, the above holds true for that time of the year also. We don't need bath sets, slippers, or new gloves. We NEED you to appreciate us.