I remember learning about the origins of Mother's Day several years ago, but had forgotten them until I saw some facts posted online about Mom's Day today.
Mother's Day actually started with Julia Ward Howe proclaiming a "Mother's Peace Day" in response to the violence and the loss of so many sons and young lives in the Civil War. I really cannot fathom what that must feel like as a mother to watch your own flesh and blood leave for war, be it the Civil War or Afghanistan.
Over the years, like so many days and events, the date we observe for Mother's Day now seems to be about "stuff." It's become pretty commercial. Don't get me wrong, I love a bouquet of flowers or a thoughtful card from one of my boys as much as the next Mom, but it makes me a bit sad that the original flavor and intent of the day has been lost. Whether you have given birth or not, Mother's Peace Day really started as a day for all women to stand together against violence and promote peace.
Maybe you are grieving the loss of your own Mom today, or maybe you are grieving the loss of children you were unable to conceive or raise. Perhaps you are a Mom who has lost a child through violence or war. I'm sure your heart hurts. Your loss is huge and unimaginable. No matter your circumstance, whether this is a day of pain or a day of joy, may all of us as women stand together. Maybe we can get the men to stand with us as well!! The next time we step on our yoga mats and set an intention for peace, lets really make it count. Let's work for a better future for the next generation with each breath. A future of peace and long lives for all of the world's children.
PEACE....and Happy Mother's Peace Day!
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2 comments:
Wonderful insight! It was hard to read people's pain on FB yesterday, along with the feelings of joy. Ying and yang go together, as much as we wish it wouldn't.
You are so right. As with so many holidays, some are celebrating, while others just feel grief and sadness.
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