Anna M. Jarvis (1864-1948) first suggested the national observance of an annual day honoring mothers because she had loved her own mother so dearly. At a memorial service for her mother on May 10, 1908, Miss Jarvis gave a carnation -- her mother's favorite flower -- to each person who attended.
Within the next few years, the idea of a day to honor mothers gained popularity, and Mother's Day was observed in a number of large cities in the U.S. On May 9, 1914, by an act of Congress, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day. He established the day as a time for "public expression of our love and reverence for the mothers of our country." By then it had become customary to wear white carnations to honor departed mothers and red to honor the living, a custom that continues to this day.
I have many fond memories of my mom. When I was growing up, she was always there for me when I needed her. She continues to be an example to me of what it means to be a Christian. I can remember getting up early for my paper route and when I came home my mom would be sitting in the recliner, drinking some coffee, and reading her Bible. She showed me what it meant to be devoted to the Lord.
What would we do without our mothers and grandmothers? Many times they are the rock and glue that holds families together. Many times they are the spiritual leaders in the home. They are there to pick us up and encourage us when we are down. Mothers are the caregivers in our lives.
So, I want to encourage you to honor your wives, mothers, and grandmothers this month. Celebrate her not just for a day but for the month. Make a list of 31 things she does for you and the family, which you seldom thank her for. Make a point of thanking her specifically for one on each day of the coming month. On each day of the following month pay her a new compliment on one of her good attitudes, character qualities, habits or talents. And be prepared for a better relationship than you've enjoyed in quite a while.
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Jason Benjestorf is the pastor of Safe Harbor Fellowship in Superior. Questions for him can be mailed to The Daily Telegram, 1226 Ogden Ave., Superior, WI, 54880 or sent via e-mail to editorial@superiortelegram.com or pastorbenje@yahoo.com .
