Mother’s Day is almost here. How are you celebrating and showing how much you appreciate all that she does? This is a day to honor all of the women in your life. It’s on the calendar, but it really hasn’t been around all that long.
Origins of Mother’s Day
In Ancient Greece and Rome there were many festivals for the mother Goddesses, but no special days for Moms. It really wasn’t until the 16th century that “Mothering Sunday” was recognized. Even then it was less about the women and more about attending the Mother Church (Roman Catholic origins during Lent).
Mother's Day as we know it started in West Virginia, USA during the Civil War. Ann Jarvis, known as “Mother Jarvis” started “Mother’s Day Work Clubs ” at her church. This was a way to spread awareness of the poor health conditions in her community. As the war ended she organized “Mother’s Friendship Day” to help promote peace between the North and South. In the tradition of her mother, Anna Jarvis continued her mother’s activism by working on giving mothers the recognition they deserved. During her efforts Anna sent 500 white carnations to be given to the mothers at her church. Carnations have become one of the official flowers for Mother’s Day.
By 1908 the first public celebration was held as part of a memorial service held for her mother in Grafton, VA. By 1912, the annual celebrations continued as Anna teamed up with florists and department stores and soon many states adopted the holiday. It was finally in 1914 that President Wilson declared Mother’s Day to be celebrated annually on the 2nd Sunday of May, “dedicated to the best Mother in the world, your Mother.”
Gifts for Mom
So why do we send flowers for Mother’s Day? Flowers represent life and fertility, just like the gift our mothers gave to us, so they are an obvious choice. Florists were the first businesses that Anna Jarvis worked with as her Mother loved flowers. Through the years Mother’s Day has become very commercial, but the core message is still the same, celebrating Mom and the role of mothers in our society.
So how do you celebrate? No matter how you choose to celebrate it will definitely be the thought that will bring a smile to mom’s face. If you can’t see Mom in person on Sunday, send her something! Call your local florist such as the Floral Gallery and they can help you send an arrangement perfect for Mom. Make sure they put some pink carnations in the arrangement as they are not only long lasting, but represent a mother’s love. If gardening is her hobby, think about bringing her a garden basket or a planter that can be used to decorate a front step or patio. Does she like to cook? How about an herb garden planter or plant some herbs for her! Whatever you decide, just remember to celebrate Mom.
I love you, Mom, Happy Mother’s Day!
