Mother’s Day exists to honor and celebrate the role of mothers and maternal figures in our lives—recognizing the love, sacrifices, and guidance they provide. Here’s a brief overview of why we observe it:

1. To Acknowledge Maternal Love and Sacrifice
Mothers (and mother‐figures) often shape our earliest experiences—nurturing us, teaching us, and supporting us through life’s challenges. A dedicated day allows families and communities to express gratitude, appreciation, and love in a focused way.

2. Historical Roots

Ancient Precursors: Various spring festivals in ancient Greece and Rome celebrated mother goddesses (like Rhea or Cybele), acknowledging fertility and familial bonds.

Christian Mothering Sunday: In medieval Europe, the fourth Sunday of Lent was known as “Mothering Sunday,” when people returned to their “mother” church and often visited their own mothers.

Modern U.S. Holiday: Anna Jarvis of West Virginia campaigned for a national day to honor mothers, inspired by the memory of her own mother’s work for community welfare. Her efforts led President Woodrow Wilson to proclaim the first official U.S. Mother’s Day on May 10, 1914.

3. Cultural Significance

Family Bonding: It’s an occasion for families to come together—often sharing meals, cards, flowers, and small gifts.

Public Recognition: Schools, local organizations, and media highlight stories of extraordinary mothers—military moms, single parents, adoptive mothers—broadening our appreciation of diverse maternal experiences.

Commercial Aspect: Over time, cards, flowers (especially carnations), and gift‐giving have become traditions—both supporting local florists and reflecting our desire to “thank” mothers in tangible ways.

4. Global Variations
While the U.S. and many countries celebrate on the second Sunday in May, others mark Mother’s Day on different dates (e.g., the U.K. still observes Mothering Sunday in Lent). Despite calendar differences, the core purpose—honoring motherhood—remains the same worldwide.

At its heart, Mother’s Day is about pausing our daily routines to say “thank you” to the women who brought us into the world, raised us, and continue to support us. It’s a reminder to cherish those bonds, to reflect on the pivotal role of maternal care, and to create moments of appreciation and joy.