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Celebrating Our Mothers on Sunday, May 14

Mother’s Day is a celebration honoring the mother of the family (whether it is a biological mother, surrogate, foster, aunt, cousin, neighbor, nana, or grandmother), as well as motherhood. It is celebrated in many parts of the world on the second Sunday of May.

The modern celebration of Mother’s Day began in the United States in the early 20th century and is said to be loosely originated from many celebrations of mothers and motherhood that have occurred throughout the world over thousands of years, such as the Greek cult to Cybele, the Roman festival of Hilaria, or the Christian “Mothering Sunday” celebration (originally a commemoration of the mother church, not motherhood). In some countries, Mother’s Day has become synonymous with these older traditions.

The American incarnation of Mother’s Day was created by Anna Jarvis and Julie Ward Howe in 1908 and became an official U.S. holiday six years later on May 8, 1914 by President Woodrow Wilson. On this day, daughters, sons, and husbands may plan extra time to make the day memorable and special. Several common traditions include breakfast in bed or going out to brunch or a fancy dinner. A card and gift are usually also given during the celebration as a token of gratitude and appreciation.

Mother’s Day continues to retain one of the highest sales of flowers and greeting cards. Mother’s Day is also the biggest holiday for long-distance telephone calls. Moreover, churchgoing is also popular on Mother’s Day, yielding the highest church attendance after Christmas Eve and Easter. Many worshippers celebrate the day with carnations for the mothers.

So no matter how you decide to celebrate, take some time on Sunday, May 14 to say thank you to that special woman who has helped make your life meaningful.

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