Every year, as May rolls around, I find myself thinking deeply about Mother’s Day—not just
about buying flowers or booking brunch, but about the real meaning behind this powerful day.
As someone who values family, traditions, and community, Mother’s Day 2025 feels like the
perfect opportunity to pause and truly honor the women who have shaped our lives.
But did you know Mother’s Day wasn’t always about chocolates and greeting cards? Its roots,
and the ways it’s celebrated around the world, tell a much richer story—one of gratitude,
resilience, and global love.
Today, I want to share a little history, a little heart, and a little inspiration about why celebrating
Mother’s Day matters more than ever.
The True History of Mother’s Day
Long before Mother’s Day became the commercial holiday we know today, it was about genuine,
heartfelt gratitude.
The modern Mother’s Day began thanks to Anna Jarvis, who, in 1908, organized the first
official celebration in Grafton, West Virginia. Jarvis was inspired by her own mother’s lifelong
work to care for others, especially women and children. She envisioned a day dedicated to
appreciating mothers’ sacrifices—not a day centered around store-bought gifts.
Her vision caught on quickly. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the second
Sunday of May as a national holiday honoring mothers across the United States.
Ironically, Anna Jarvis would later fight against the commercialization of the holiday she
created, believing its true meaning—a simple, sincere appreciation of mothers—was being
lost.
Today, as I write this, I think Anna’s vision is exactly what we need to reconnect with.
How Mother’s Day is Celebrated Around the World
Learning how other countries celebrate Mother’s Day has only deepened my appreciation for it.
While the dates and customs vary, one thing remains universal: love and gratitude.
Mexico – Día de las Madres (May 10th)
In Mexico, Día de las Madres is celebrated every May 10th. It’s a colorful, emotional day filled
with music, food, and family gatherings. Children often serenade their mothers with “Las
Mañanitas” and share a meal together. The streets come alive with celebration.
Japan – Haha no Hi (Second Sunday in May)
In Japan, Mother’s Day focuses on giving carnations, symbols of purity and gentle strength.
Children draw pictures and prepare homemade meals for their mothers. It’s a day marked by
simplicity and sincerity—something I find so beautiful.
United Kingdom – Mothering Sunday (Fourth Sunday of Lent)
In the UK, Mothering Sunday began as a religious tradition during Lent, when people returned
to their “mother church.” Over time, it evolved into a day to celebrate mothers with small gifts
and family time, often much earlier than our American Mother’s Day.
Egypt – Mother’s Day (March 21st)
In Egypt and across many Arab countries, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the first day of spring,
March 21st. It’s a huge cultural event, marked with public tributes, media celebrations, and
heartfelt gatherings of family and friends.
Thailand – Mother’s Day (August 12th)
Thailand celebrates Mother’s Day on August 12th, the birthday of Queen Sirikit, regarded as the
mother of the nation. Children honor their mothers with jasmine flowers and public ceremonies,
weaving national pride and family love together.
Why Celebrating Mother’s Day Is So Important
Mother’s Day, at its heart, is about more than gifts or fancy dinners. It’s about recognizing the
endless sacrifices, the quiet strength, and the unconditional love that mothers and mother
figures bring into our lives.
When I think about the mothers around the world—those raising children in challenging times,
nurturing families across generations, mentoring others with care—I realize that Mother’s Day
isn’t just a holiday. It’s a human need to give thanks.
And the beauty of Mother’s Day is that it extends beyond biological mothers. It’s a day to
celebrate:
- Grandmothers
- Aunts
- Stepmoms
- Mentors
- Friends who have given us maternal love
Final Thoughts: Honor the Love That Shapes Us
The history of Mother’s Day reminds us that simple acts of love and appreciation can become
powerful movements. Whether you’re celebrating in Colorado, Cairo, Tokyo, or Mexico City,
Mother’s Day is a universal reminder that nurturing, compassion, and resilience are worth
celebrating.
This Mother’s Day, let’s honor the women who have lifted us, loved us, and taught us to be better.
Happy Mother’s Day 2025—to all the incredible women who make the world a little
brighter every day. ❤️