What’s the most beautiful word in English? You’re right – it’s “mother” according to non-English speaking countries based on a survey made by British Council in 2004.  Knowing that also makes us wonder about “father” but, unfortunately, it’s not found on the same list. But that is a topic for another day.

How do you observe the special day of the year when you acknowledge how much your mother means to you? And as a mom, how do you hope to celebrate the day in your honor? Would you like to have an official day off away from the laundry, meals, and responsibilities? Would you have it spent in a quiet place probably by the beach and look back on your progress as a parent and person? No matter how simple or profound the occasion is for you and your family, this is your day to shine and be pampered.

Long Trivia: More than two centuries ago, the first known Mother’s Day was ritualized by ancient Egyptians in honor of their goddess, Isis, the giver of life. Female dancers and musicians performed during the annual festival. It is also said that modern Egypt introduced the event to Arab countries when a journalist recommended setting a day to show love for mothers. The newspaper readers agreed and it was decided to fall on the first day of spring just like here in Qatar. In fact, as influenced by western traditions, it is also celebrated a second time this May so you can expect shopping malls to be populated with people purchasing gifts for the light of their home or mothers.

Here are the ways the globe remembers and revels to give you an idea on how your mom can enjoy this occasion:

Tradition

In the UK, “Mothering Day” as it is called is the earliest known celebration (1600s) for mothers aside from the aforementioned. It falls on fourth Sunday of Lent (which can either be in March or April). Christians before would go to their hometown or “mother” churches to worship and nowadays, some still bake Simnel cake or fruit cake with almonds to break the fasting during the lent and appreciate those who nurtured them.

Anna Jarvis, an American social activist, campaigned for six years for her mother and all mothers of soldiers who passed during the civil war to be commemorated until it was made into a presidential decree. But, before she died, she strongly opposed the commercialization of the event. At the time, Hallmark cards were sold and circulated to celebrate. But her efforts were not futile because white carnations are still bestowed to those whose moms have departed and red or pink ones to those who are still alive just like the very first Mother’s Day in the US.

In Japan, it is called “haha no hi,” and was celebrated by having children draw their mothers with the best artworks exhibited throughout the country and abroad. At present, people gift red carnations and cook meals their moms taught them how to make.

Inclusion

In Russia and other former communist countries, Mother’s Day coincides with International Women’s Day on March 8th to reflect on gender equality. While in Indonesia, the day is celebrated in December to show respect to all women. They prepare surprise parties and cooking competitions as well as presents and cards.

Music and festivities

In Mexico, the day is a very, very memorable holiday. It starts with visiting grandmothers and mothers the night before and mariachi band singing a popular birthday song in the early morning. It is the time of the year when the restaurants are busiest.

In Thailand, the nation rejoices the birthday of the queen – symbolically the mother of the nation. It was initially created by the royal family to reach out to the public. Thais organize parades and concerts along with more intimate celebrations of family.

Mother is indeed the most beautiful word because it is synonymous to love. Your children learn about everlasting, unconditional love and commitment because you loved them first. In spite of all the hardships and heartaches in raising kids, you smile and say, “you can still give more” and continue to find joy in your deepest regard for yourself and your family.  On this significant day (and any other day), may you realize that you are always cherished and held in the highest esteem. Happy Mother’s Day! 🙂

By Jin

Sources:

Bologna, Catherine. “How people celebrate around the world.” (2017, December 6). Huffington Post. Retrieved from https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/05/08/mothers-day-around-the-world_n_7235774.html
How do they celebrate mother’ day in other countries. (n.d.). CBC Kids: Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved from http://www.cbc.ca/kidscbc2/the-feed/how-do-they-celebrate-mothers-day-in-other-countries
‘Mother’ is the most beautiful word. (2004, November 25). The Telegraph. Retrieved from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/1477484/Mother-is-the-most-beautiful-word.html
Mother’s day: an ancient Egyptian tradition. (2015, March 21). Retrieved from http://thecairopost.youm7.com/news/142641/culture/mothers-day-an-ancient-egyptian-tradition
Mother’s days around the world. (2018, March 11). Marhaba. Retrieved from https://www.marhaba.qa/mothers-days-around-the-world/