Mother’s Day is a day of celebration and appreciation for the wonderful mothers and mother figures in our lives. It’s a time to show gratitude for all the love, care, and sacrifice that these amazing women have given us. However, it’s important to remember that not everyone has a positive association with this holiday. For many, Mother’s Day can be a difficult and painful reminder of loss, grief, or other challenging experiences.
As we approach Mother’s Day, it’s important to be considerate of those who may not be in a celebratory mood. This includes people who have lost their mothers or children, those who have difficult relationships with their parents, those who are struggling with infertility or pregnancy loss, and those who are estranged from their families. It’s essential to acknowledge and respect their feelings and experiences, and not pressure them to participate in celebrations that may be triggering or hurtful.
Be sensitive to others on Mother’s Day
One way to be considerate is to approach the day with empathy and compassion. Take the time to reach out to those who may be struggling and offer a listening ear or a comforting word. You can also acknowledge their feelings and let them know that you’re thinking of them. For example, sending a heartfelt message or a small gift that acknowledges their pain can go a long way in showing your support and understanding.
Additionally, it’s important to be mindful of the language and messages we use around Mother’s Day. Avoid assuming that everyone has a positive relationship with their mother or that all women are mothers. Instead, use inclusive language that acknowledges the diversity of experiences and feelings around motherhood.
Be sensitive to yourself on Mother’s Day
If you’re someone who struggles on Mother’s Day, know that you are not alone. It’s okay to feel that you have complex or conflicting emotions on this day. Be gentle with yourself. Validate that your emotions (sadness, anger, envy, anxiety) make sense. Remember and connect with all the individuals in the world who are feeling similarly to you (really, so many are!). Give yourself the gift of care. What do you need right now that you could give yourself? Maybe you need quiet – snuggle up on your sofa with a good book. Maybe you need to get out – go for a walk, visit with a friend, get a cup of coffee somewhere. Most of all, listen to your internal needs and do your best to meet them where you can.
At The Houston Center for Valued Living, we are thinking of you today! Wishing you and those you love a day in which you share and receive care to and from others and from within!
What is the history of Mother’s Day?
The history of Mother’s Day dates back to ancient civilizations, but the modern version of the holiday originated in the United States in the early 20th century.
The origins of Mother’s Day can be traced back to ancient Greece, where a festival called “Mother’s Day” was held in honor of Rhea, the mother of the gods. In ancient Rome, a similar holiday called “Matronalia” was celebrated to honor Juno, the goddess of motherhood.
In the United States, the modern version of Mother’s Day was created by Anna Jarvis in 1908. Anna Jarvis was inspired to create the holiday after the death of her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, who had been a peace activist and had worked to improve public health and sanitation. Anna Jarvis organized the first Mother’s Day celebration at a church in West Virginia, and the holiday quickly became popular across the United States.
In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation making Mother’s Day a national holiday in the United States. Since then, Mother’s Day has been celebrated on the second Sunday in May each year. The holiday has since spread to many other countries around the world, with each country celebrating it in its own way.
Kathryn Tipton, MA, LPC, PMH-C is a maternal mental health specialist and co-founder of The Houston Center for Valued Living. She has a passion for working with individuals walking through infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. She treats anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, insomnia, and adjustment concerns. She is the leader of Houston Postpartum Peer Support, a no-cost online support group for mothers in Texas.