In this column, we usually deal with dads – the issues we face, the struggles we encounter, and the challenges we face.

But today we want to talk about moms. Mothers do so much to keep things steady. They organize the family, arrange activities, schedule appointments, plan meals, transport kids, make connections, provide balance and spread love.

Whether they are at home or in the workplace, in the public or private sector, they are a vital force to whom we owe an immense debt of gratitude and admiration.

Mother’s Day is a way to show a little appreciation for someone who does so much.

It was created in America in May 1914 by an act of Congress but was many years in the making through the efforts of Anna Marie Jarvis and her mother, Ann. While the commercialization of the holiday was something Anna disliked, the spirit she intended for the celebration is still intact.

Mom the manager

Dads, think about all the little ways your wife makes things work in your family. The hurts she nurses, the needs she addresses, the questions she handles, the aches she soothes, the tears she comforts, the plans she develops, the efforts she encourages, and the schedules she manages. 

Ruby Manikan, an Indian church leader, once said, “If you educate a man, you educate a person, but if you educate a woman, you educate a family.”

A lifetime commitment

This Sunday provides a chance to recognize mom’s value to the family and to our society. Mother’s Day allows us to stop for a moment and honor someone important in our lives for the many ways she comforts, supports and guides our children and us. And it’s a fulltime job. 

Margaret Thatcher, former prime minister of Great Britain, once commented, “I’ve got woman’s ability to stick to a job and get on with it when everyone else walks off and leaves it.” We think that’s a commitment shared by most moms. 

Say thank you

Do a little planning and pick out one or two qualities that make mom special. Think about what she does to nurture your family and how to recognize her contributions and appreciate those special gifts.

We’re not talking about a stop on the way home at the quick mart for a fill-up and a cheesy three-dollar card. As Anna Jarvis said, “A printed card means nothing except that you are too lazy to write to the woman who has done more for you than anyone in the world. And candy! You take a box to Mother—and then eat most of it yourself. A pretty sentiment.”

Put some thought into how you and your children might show appreciation for someone who has done so much. Collaborate with your kids on a project to make a card, create a gift, or perhaps write a remembrance. Spend some focused time together with your children. Let mom know how much you appreciate all the things she has done for you. 

No matter how old we are, we never lose the need for a mother’s love. We should always appreciate it.