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What Is Mother’s Day and Why Do We Celebrate It?

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What is Mother's Day and why do de celebrate it?

Mother’s Day is an annual holiday celebrated worldwide to honor and appreciate mothers and mother figures for their love, sacrifices, and contributions to our lives.

It is a day to express gratitude and affection towards the women who have given birth to us, raised us, and supported us through thick and thin. In this post, we will explore the meaning and significance of Mother’s Day, as well as its origins and traditions.

The Significance of Mother's Day

The significance of Mother’s Day lies in its message of love, appreciation, and gratitude toward our mothers. It is a day to acknowledge the vital role that mothers play in nurturing, educating, and shaping the future of their children and families. 

Mother’s Day is an opportunity to thank our moms for their unconditional love, patience, and guidance, and to celebrate the unique and irreplaceable bond that we share with them.

Images of Daughter, Mom, and Grandma Celebrating Mother's Day

The History of Mother's Day

The history of Mother’s Day dates back to ancient times, when various cultures and civilizations honored mother goddesses and maternal figures as symbols of fertility, nurturing, and protection.

In the modern era, the concept of Mother’s Day as we know it was first introduced by Anna Jarvis, an American social activist, who wanted to commemorate her own mother’s selflessness and devotion.

Anna Jarvis campaigned tirelessly for the official recognition of Mother’s Day as a national holiday, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation designating the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day in the United States.

Mother's Day Traditions and Customs

Mother’s Day is celebrated by people of all ages, genders, and cultures around the world. Different countries have different traditions and customs for celebrating Mother’s Day, but the underlying sentiment remains the same – to honor and appreciate our mothers.

United States

In the United States, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in May. It is a big holiday, and many people celebrate by giving their mothers gifts, cards, or flowers. Many families attend church services on Mother’s Day and enjoy a special meal.

United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, Mother’s Day is known as Mothering Sunday, and it falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent. On this day, children traditionally give their mothers flowers, cards, or small gifts. It is also common to attend church services or have a family gathering. The day is marked by a special cake called the Simnel Cake, which is made with fruit and marzipan.

Mexico

In Mexico, Mother’s Day, or El Día de las Madres, is celebrated on May 10th every year. It is a big holiday, and many people celebrate by giving their mothers gifts, cards, and flowers, particularly red carnations which symbolize love and affection. Families often have feasts, attend church services, and participate in religious celebrations.

Image of Red Carnations

Japan

In Japan, Mother’s Day is known as Haha no Hi, and it falls on the second Sunday of May. It is a relatively new holiday, having been established after World War II. On this day, it is customary to give mothers flowers, particularly the carnation, which is a symbol of motherly love. It is also common to have a family gathering or take your mother out for a special meal.

Is it Mother's Day, Mothers' Day, or Mothers Day?

The correct way to spell Mother’s Day is in the singular possessive – Mother’s Day.

This is the way that it was signed in law when it was declared a national holiday in 1914 and has since not been changed. Many people may not agree with spelling Mother’s Day in the singular possessive as it is possible for someone to have multiple maternal figures in their life worth honoring on this day.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mother’s Day is a special occasion that celebrates the love, care, and sacrifice of mothers and mother figures.  It is a great day to give the mothers in your life a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift and spend quality time with them to honor and appreciate the vital role they play in our lives. 

Mother’s Day is a universal holiday that transcends borders and cultures and reflects the common human experience of love and motherhood. So, let’s take this opportunity to show our moms how much we love and appreciate them, not just on Mother’s Day, but every day.

P.S. If you are still looking for a Mother’s Day gift for Mom poke around our website for some giftspiration 😉

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