Moms Honoring Moms

November 22, 2009

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Moms Honoring Moms

by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P.
reviewed by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P.

I really learned it all from mothers.
-- Dr. Benjamin Spock, as quoted in Time magazine, April 8, 1985, upon publication of the 40th anniversary of Baby and Child Care

Now that you are a mom (or are soon to become one), you undoubtedly have a much deeper understanding of the love, sacrifice, rewards, and fears that motherhood bestows. As you look forward to celebrating Mother's Day and being honored for all that you mean to your family, it's also an appropriate time to show your appreciation to your own mother, as well as the other special women in your life. Above all, remember that the most precious gift you can give anyone--especially mothers--is your time and attention, a hug, or a heartfelt thank you.

Hat's off to mom
If your mother is alive and involved in your life, she probably feels a great sense of pride as she sees you in the role of mother. There are many ways for you to include your mom-as well as your husband's--in this special occasion.

If your mother or mom-in-law lives near you, consider making Mother's Day a multigenerational celebration. Be sure to commemorate the gathering of the clan with a group photo or video.

Talk to your children about special childhood memories you have of your own mother. As you look forward to spending time with your own kids, you may be pleasantly reminded that your most treasured memories are not of extravagant, carefully planned events, but of just hanging out with your mom.

Remember to honor your mother-in-law. If she is (or wants to be) an active part in your children's lives, here's a great opportunity to put aside any child-rearing differences or other sources of disagreements and simply honor her for the role she has played in raising the father of your children.

Simply give your mother a call-as you've probably realized from your own experiences, nothing is more welcome to a mother's ear than the sound of her child's voice.

Wear a white or red carnation (maybe even consider sending your mother some). This tradition began back with Anna Jarvis, the woman credited with founding Mother's Day in the U.S. in 1908. A red carnation signals your love for a mom who is close to your heart-and close by. A white bloom is to be worn if your mother is separated by distance (or death) and shows that you miss her.

Still in your heart
Besides donning a white carnation, if your own mother has passed away, you can honor her in many other ways. Some simple suggestions:

Pull out a family photo album and look at it with your children.

Visit her grave site.

If your mother had a special recipe, make it on Mother's Day-and get the kids involved to pass along a valuable family tradition.

Find time for your own personal reflections. Think about the positive impact your mother had on your life.

Of course, if you find yourself estranged from your own parent this Mother's Day, the holiday may find you with mixed emotions. Depending on your situation, you may want to take a moment and contemplate if there's anything positive in the way of memories you can share with your children. It will be a gift for them, and just might make you feel better on this, your special holiday.


RELATED INFORMATION

			A Fresh Approach to Mother's Day Gifts
			The Do's and Don'ts of Mother's Day
			Holidays

Created May 01, 2001
Reviewed May 02, 2001

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