BREAK IT DOWN!

Mother’s Day is more than merely a date on the calendar—it is a reminder to pause and recognize the steady, often quiet work that mothers and mother figures do every day. While gifts, flowers, and cards are common traditions, the heart of the holiday is gratitude.

As I reflected on the coming weekend, it occurred to me that though I’ve shared the story of losing my mother to the abdominal disease called cancer when I was 8 years old, in 19 years, I’ve never written a Mother’s Day post. A close examination of my psyche would probably reveal there are some deep-seated reasons for that omission. Not to worry, this post is not that assessment.

No, today’s conversation is an invitation to reflect, however briefly, on the people who have cared for us, guided us, and helped shape who we are, even when their efforts were unnoticed or taken for granted. Despite the overarching theme that mothers are underappreciated in general, trust and believe, Sunday, May 10, 2026, will be the busiest day of the year for telephone calls. Verizon, just one network, Verizon, indicated that over 394 million calls were made on their network on Mother’s Day, 2024, totaling 28.3 million hours on the phone. And as noted, that’s just Verizon. Can you hear me now? 

A mother’s love is frequently shown through ordinary moments: waking up early to prepare breakfast, staying up late to help with homework, offering encouragement after a hard day, or listening patiently when someone needs to talk. They nurture us, teach us, protect and defend us, promote us, boast about our accomplishments, and boost our confidence when we falter.  

These actions may seem small individually, but together they form a powerful foundation of support. Mothers often carry many responsibilities at once—balancing work, family, and personal challenges—yet still find ways to make others feel safe and valued. Their strength is not always loud or dramatic; it is steady, present, and dependable.

Mother’s Day also gives us the chance to recognize that motherhood takes many forms. Not everyone is raised by a biological mother, and not every family looks the same. Some people are supported by grandmothers, aunts, older sisters, foster parents, stepmothers, guardians, or mentors who step into nurturing roles. These mother figures deserve appreciation too, because they provide the same essential gifts: care, guidance, and love. Celebrating Mother’s Day can be inclusive, honoring anyone who has offered patient encouragement and protective kindness.

The holiday is meaningful not only because it celebrates mothers, but because it encourages us to express appreciation out loud. Many people assume their mothers already know how loved they are, but words matter. A sincere “thank you” can be more valuable than an expensive present. Writing a note, making time for a conversation, helping with chores, or simply being attentive can communicate respect and gratitude. Most importantly, Mother’s Day reminds us that appreciation should not be saved for once a year. The best way to honor a mother is to show kindness and recognition consistently.

In summary, Mother’s Day is about connection. It is a celebration of sacrifice, patience, and unconditional support, but it is also a call to reflect on how love is expressed through everyday actions. By taking time to acknowledge the mothers and mother figures in our lives, we honor the people who help us grow. Whether through a heartfelt message, time spent together, or a simple act of service, Mother’s Day is a moment to recognize a love that deserves to be celebrated—today and every day. You may be one of the nearly 400 million people who call her, you may share a meal…that she doesn’t have to prepare, or you may bring gifts and glad tidings. In the event your mother has shuffled off this mortal coil, reach out to a mother figure and share a heartfelt greeting. It might make their day…and yours too. ”Mother’s Day: A Celebration of Everyday Love!”

I’m done; holla back!

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This post was augmented by the use of AI.