ON Mother’s Day yesterday, people around the world celebrated the occasion with smiles on their faces. Many families got together, just like always, and presented flowers and gifts to the mothers in the family. The dining table overflowed with food in many affluent homes, and a simpler array of dishes for the modest households. The laughter and warm feelings were always there, of course.
But I can’t help but think about the mothers in pain, and those who spent the day without the beloved mothers in their families. The past months have been a struggle for almost everyone and for many, part of this struggle has to do with the loss of people close to them. While we celebrated this special day with joy and warm smiles, I hope we did not forget those who were not able to do the same.
We have mothers who are sick, from Covid or some other disease. We have mothers who are taking care of sick family members, and mothers who are struggling with money. There are moms who lost their jobs, moms who lost their children. Let us not forget the mothers in abusive relationships, those in dysfunctional households, and those who are emotionally battered. In other words, let us also remember the mothers in pain, as well as families who are grieving because they have lost their mothers. Mother’s Day is a difficult occasion for some people.
If you know mothers who are going through a tough time now, it is not too late to write them a note, send a text or e-mail, or to even call them. It may be a day late but it would perhaps help to say hello, ask how they are doing, and greet them on this occasion. If you know someone who lost their mother, you can do the same. It is a necessary gesture during this dark, oppressive times.
It’s a good time to remember the mothers who are not with us anymore and to say a prayer for their peaceful rest. Light a candle and sit in silent remembrance. We can offer prayers and good intentions for our Inang Bayan, for our Mother Earth—they, too, nurture and nourish us. And they, too, are in pain. What can we children do to help ease this pain?
We must not forget, last but not least, the mothers who are in our midst, loving us every moment and taking care of us in their special way. Make each moment with them count by expressing our love and making sure they know that they are cherished—not just on Mother’s Day but as often as we can.
Here is a special greeting to all mothers: May you be blessed even as you bless your children. Happy Mother’s Day!