in 1870, julia ward howe wrote her "Mother's Day Proclamation" in an attempt to reconcile confederate & union neighbors. the spirit to reunify the country was based on the hard work and struggles faced daily by mothers.
her attempt failed.
it would not be until 1914 that president woodrow wilson declared the first national mothers' day as an official way to honor mothers whose sons had died in war.
today, hallmark, ftd, verizon, apple, and the rest of capitalist america have turned the day into one of the most commercially successful events of the year - somehow tarnishing the spirit in which it was created, if you let it.
this year, there was no way for me to fall into that trap.
here is my mom -
( along with some strange hippie wanna-be )
about the time this photo was taken, she was diagnosed with cancer.
she took the news like the strong woman she is. after careful consultation, long discussions with my medical siblings and my dad, and much prayer, she determined her treatment route and never looked back.
at the time and throughout all her treatments, it seemed like a speedbump for our family - just something you slow down for, but easily make it over.
yet yesterday, when i sat to write a few thoughts in her mothers' day card, it hit me. and the thoughts were very unsettling. she was and still is in a fight for life.
her boldness to speak her mind, determine what is best for her, and deal with her treatments day by day have taught me lessons i never dreamed i'd have to master. truly she is a warrior.
so today, while she has never sent a son or daughter to war, i return to the original spirit of the day and honor my mother for the battles she has fought, fights, and will continue to fight.
truly worth more than a hallmark card.
love you moo! -
1 comment:
Mini Mouse Moo!! She is the most amazing woman, mother, and friend. I guess I never though of it as a "continued fight" but in reality it is....a daily fight that she will always wake up to...(along with Toe and Jack). A warrior must always know its enemy and what it's capable of. A warrior must always know the consequences of battle and if you choose to fight, you must fight whole heartedly as if it will be your last. My mom has accepted this battle and has shown that she is a true and fearless warrior. We are and will continue this daily fight with you mom all the way until the battle is won right by your side. Thank you for being you and being our mother......Cowboy BOB
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