How did mother's day begin?
The earliest tributes to mothers date back to the annual spring festival the Greeks dedicated to Rhea. To the Greeks Rhea is the mother of many deities. The Ancient Romans also gave offerings to their Great Mother of Gods, Cybele.
Christians celebrated this festival on the fourth Sunday in Lent in honor of Mary, mother of Christ. In England this holiday was expanded to include all mothers and was called Mothering Sunday.
In the United States Mother's Day began nearly 150 years ago. An Appalachian woman by the name of Anna Jarvis, planned a day to raise understanding of poor health conditions in her community. She called it "Mother's Work Day."
Her daughter continued to lobby for a day to be set aside to honor mothers. In 1914 Woodrow Wilson signed a bill making Mother's Day a national holiday.
To me Mother's Day is a time when family comes together. It's not just about gifts, flowers and eating out but a time to honor those wonderful mothers, grandmothers, and great grandmothers who have played such magnificent roles in the bringing up their children.
Thank you mom, for always being there when I have needed you. I love you more than words can express. Wish you could be here today with us.
Your daughter, Christine
What a wonderful tribute to your mother, Chris! Hope you enjoyed the day with your own daughters and son.
ReplyDeleteAnd interesting to know a day honoring mothers has been around for a long time!
-Amber Angel