It’s mid April, which means it’s almost time to observe Mother’s Day.

But why exactly do we observe Mother’s Day? How did it start? Why do we continue to observe this? And what exactly does your mom want for Mother’s Day?

How It Started

Mother’s Day in America officially became a thing in 1908 when Anna Jarvis, who lost her mother in 1905, gained financial backing to create a day to observe and honor the sacrifices all mothers made for their children. Reportedly, Jarvis envisioned the day would be spent either in church or visiting with a mother. The idea caught on, and in 1914 President Woodrow Wilson signed legislation officially recognizing Mother’s Day as an American national holiday.

However, according to History.com, Jarvis spent the latter half of her life denouncing the commercialism of the holiday she had created. She became so disgusted that she eventually started campaigning openly against the businesses profiting from the trade in candy and flowers that used the term “Mother’s Day.” She even lobbied the government to remove it from the calendar.

What It Means Today

Jarvis may have failed to stop the commercialization of Mother’s Day, but that doesn’t mean a day to honor mothers has to be commercialistic. True, the Sunday of Mother’s Day will see many people going out to dine, but the original intention of Jarvis’ vision remains the core feature of the holiday. We honor mothers by recognizing and thanking them, but mostly it becomes a great excuse just to engage with them.

In a time dominated by the back-and-forth health protocols required by the ongoing pandemic, the chance for mothers to interact with their children can be a special gift for everyone.

Part of Jarvis’ insistence on recognizing and celebrating mothers in our society stemmed from the belief that women, especially women, were not being recognized enough for all they do for their families and the social groups of the era. And while the commercialism of Mother’s Day can rival Valentine’s Day in terms of carnations, candy, and cards, the urge to celebrate mothers remains strong.

How to Celebrate Mothers

Fortunately, there are no rules when it comes to how mothers should be celebrated on Mother’s Day. Yes, many people will take mom out for food, and yes, the card/candy/flower businesses will have a good sales day, but ultimately the best way to celebrate your mother and the mothers in your life remains solely with you.

The simplest way to celebrate Mother’s Day would be communication. Call your mother and have a conversation longer than one minute. Doesn’t sound like much, but it may mean the world to your mother. If she’s within driving distance, go say hi.

Of course, the best method might be to just ask how your mother would like to spend Mother’s Day. Some caution should be observed; if your mom says she needs a week in Las Vegas, a false ID, and $1,000 cash, you’re allowed to pump the brakes and suggest brunch instead. Or maybe refer her to a travel agent.