Mother's Day falls on Sunday, May 10 this year, so set a reminder on your phone right now to call your mom and send her a bouquet of flowers or some other gift of the like. We all know you'll regret it if you don't.
A holiday dedicated to celebrating all the joy that moms bring to our lives is a no-brainer. They did carry us in their wombs for nine months and then went through the ordeal that is giving birth, after all. It's not like they don't take every opportunity to remind us of those facts, but still. We literally wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for our moms.
However, it's pretty interesting that Mother's Day has been a national holiday in the United States for more than a century. In an age where it seems like there are unofficial holidays for celebrating everything and everyone in our lives, they're all but mere descendants of holidays like Mother's Day that can only dream of being as widely celebrated. It is hard to imagine ever sending someone a card on holidays like National Sibling Day, Roast Leg of Lamb Day and National Mad Hatter Day, isn't it?
Even considering all of this, you can't help but wonder how and why Mother's Day became a holiday as big as it is today. Like many holidays we observe annually, early Mother's Day celebrations were quite different from the flower-filled family brunches we have today. Here's how.
1. It Has Ancient Origins
Celebrations of mothers and motherhood began as early as ancient Greek and Roman times, according to History.com. However, the strongest historical predecessor to Mother's Day as we know it today is the early Christian festival called Mothering Sunday, which occurs on the fourth Sunday of Lent. Centuries ago, this was an opportunity for people to visit their "mother," or main, church, which was often located near their homes. This soon evolved to become an occasion for family reunions. Europeans still observe Mothering Sunday today as a special day for mothers, much like Mother's Day in the U.S.
2. Mother's Day Has A Political History
Mother's Day is celebrated around the world, but observances vary depending on where you are. Taking place on May 10 every year, Mother's Day is huge in Mexico when people flock to restaurants for elaborate luncheons. Families in Ethiopia come together each fall to sing songs and eat a big feast for Antrosht, a multi-day celebration of motherhood, according to History.com. Mother's Day is also celebrated on Aug. 12 in Thailand in honor of Queen Sirikit.
Be sure to follow T-Lounge on Twitter and visit our Facebook page
