Originally conceived by Julia Ward Howe after the American Civil War as a day honoring (in her opinion) the inherent pacifism of mothers, Mother’s Day now simply celebrates motherhood and thanks mothers.
The first Mother’s Day, as we would recognize it, was celebrated in Grafton, West Virginia. It was held it on May 10, 1908, in the church where the elder Anna Jarvis had taught Sunday School. Grafton is the home to the International Mother’s Day Shrine. From there, the custom caught on — spreading eventually to 45 states. Finally, the holiday was declared officially by states beginning in 1912, and in 1914 the President, Woodrow Wilson, declared the first national Mother’s Day.
Mother’s Day Quotes
Here are just a few quotes from people that honored their mothers with these wonderful and memorable words about motherhood.
- Proverbs: A mother is clothed with strength and dignity, laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks her words are wise and she gives instructions with kindness.
- Oliver Wendell Holmes: The real religion of the world comes from women much more than from men – from mothers most of all, who carry the key of our souls in their bosoms.
- Abraham Lincoln: I remember my mother’s prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life.
- Stevie Wonder: If love is as sweet as a flower, then my mother is that sweet flower of love.
- Chinese Proverb: There is only one pretty child in the world, and every mother has it.
This Mother’s Day take a moment to remember that she was your world during your childhood, the weirdo in your youth and the guide in your adulthood. She is “Mom.”
