Musings on Mother's Day...

Mother's Day in the United Kingdom and Ireland has its roots in the Christian tradition of Mothering Sunday. This day was originally a day for Christians to return to their 'mother church' – the main church or cathedral in their hometown – on the fourth Sunday in Lent.

Over time, Mothering Sunday evolved into a more secular celebration where children and young people who were working away from home as domestic servants were given a day off to visit their families. It became a day to honour mothers and maternal figures, with children presenting flowers and other tokens of appreciation to their mothers.

In the United States, Mother's Day has a different origin, and it was officially established as a holiday in 1914. Anna Jarvis, the key figure behind the establishment of Mother's Day in the U.S., campaigned for the holiday to honour mothers and motherhood and to express love and gratitude towards them. The concept of Mother's Day then spread to other countries, each adopting its own traditions and dates for celebration.

Families adopt their own ways of celebrating, and we were chatting in our office about how various members of our team's families mark the day - we are all mothers! One of the team had us laughing when she said that she tells her son that she doesn't want flowers and breakfast in bed. What she actually wants is for all the jobs around the house she asks to be done over the year that never get done, to be tackled on Mother's Day. And that is what happens in her home! She writes a list of what needs doing, and her husband and son set to work! This is now the family's firm tradition and possibly dreaded by the men in the house!

We also recognise that Mother's Day can bring sad and sometimes painful thoughts and memories for many. For those of us who have lost dearly loved mothers, it can be a day that brings sadness. Of course, not all of us have had wonderful relationships with our mothers, which can bring about painful memories. We send love to all who may experience a difficult time on this day.

We love the concept of Mother's Day not just being about celebrating mothers but other maternal figures we may have in our lives. Someone who has cared for, and nurtured us over the years is to absolutely be celebrated, whatever the role they have played in your life. 

So, we raise a toast to all maternal figures! 

Photo credit: Matthew Henry - thank you so much.