Ann Jarvis

Ann Jarvis was a West Virginian; probably spunky, sentimental, loyal and driven. She is the one who made Mother's Day the big deal it started as and hated the commercialism that it became. This was before women could vote and the suffrage movement, although gaining speed, was just a dream for the future.

There were others before Ann, but none of those efforts took hold. Now we're kinda into a day (some 104 years later) that bypasses the idea a bit what with all the cards and flowers, dinners and "visits to say hello".  Not that any of that is a bad thing mind you, but the root of it, the realization that mother's of all types (great and not so great) put a lot of their lives, love, energies and worry (not to mention guilt!) into making you who you are and for that they deserve respect.

Some came at it with few tools in the toolbox of motherhood.  Others were naturals.  None of that, in the end, makes a lot difference and perhaps the best thing about the day is that it snaps us back to the reality of the effort and immense contribution made for us.  But then again, we need to be thinking of that the other 364 days and not just today.

In that light, mother's day is aimed squarely at us; to be better and more appreciative every day not just today. 

It is beautiful outside. Enjoy it.  Find her or remember her and take a minute - not for flowers and cards (although flowers and cards are a nice thing so don't get all crazy) but for a sincere thank you.