After the Civil War, three women in different times and places celebrated the idea of a Mother’s Day for unity and solidarity. These women, Julia Ward Howe, Anna Jarvis, and Ann Reeves Jarvis, all had a vision of honoring mothers and the sacrifices they make for their families. However, when Mother’s Day finally did come, it was co-opted by businesses looking to profit off of it.

The concept of Mother’s Day can be traced back to the 19th century, when Julia Ward Howe, an American poet and activist, wrote the “Mother’s Day Proclamation” in 1870. In this proclamation, she called for mothers to come together and promote peace and unity in the aftermath of the Civil War. She believed that mothers had a unique role in society and could use their influence to bring about positive change.

Years later, in 1907, Anna Jarvis, a social activist from West Virginia, held a memorial for her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, who had passed away. Ann Reeves Jarvis was a peace activist and had organized Mother’s Day Work Clubs to improve sanitary conditions and promote reconciliation during the Civil War. Anna Jarvis wanted to honor her mother’s legacy and continued her work by advocating for a national Mother’s Day. She believed that mothers should be recognized and appreciated for their selfless love and devotion to their families.

In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially declared the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day, following Anna Jarvis’ tireless efforts. However, as the holiday gained popularity, it also became commercialized. Businesses saw an opportunity to capitalize on the sentimentality of the day and started selling cards, flowers, and other gifts. This was not what Anna Jarvis had envisioned for Mother’s Day. She wanted it to be a day of personal celebration and appreciation, not a day for businesses to make profits.

Sadly, the commercialization of Mother’s Day has only continued to grow over the years. Today, it has become a highly commercialized holiday, with companies bombarding us with advertisements and promotions to buy gifts for our mothers. The original meaning of the day has been overshadowed by the pressure to buy expensive gifts and show off on social media.

But amidst all the commercialization, it is important to remember the true essence of Mother’s Day. It is a day to honor and celebrate the women who have played a significant role in our lives. It is a day to appreciate the sacrifices and unconditional love of mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures. It is a day to reflect on the importance of family and the bonds that hold us together.

We must also remember that Mother’s Day is not just about celebrating our own mothers, but also about recognizing and supporting all mothers. There are many women who may not have biological children, but have nurtured and cared for others in their lives. They too deserve to be celebrated on this day.

Instead of getting caught up in the commercial aspect of Mother’s Day, let us focus on the true meaning of the day. Let us take the time to thank our mothers for all that they have done for us. Let us also remember those who may not have their mothers with them anymore and offer them our love and support. And most importantly, let us not limit our appreciation and love for our mothers to just one day, but make it a daily practice.

In conclusion, the idea of Mother’s Day was born out of a desire for unity and solidarity, but it has unfortunately been co-opted by businesses for profit. However, we have the power to reclaim the true meaning of the day and celebrate it in a meaningful way. Let us honor and appreciate our mothers, not just on Mother’s Day, but every day. After all, a mother’s love knows no bounds and should be celebrated every single day.