Mother's Day: It's complicated
Mother's Day can be hard for reasons big and small. It's a reminder of how fundamental yet complicated motherhood is, for children and moms alike. We hope this helps.
A reminder of shifting roles
Whether she's a working mom or a stay-at-home mom, tiger mom or beta mom, Millennial mom, YouTube mom, helicopter mom or drone mom, mortifying mom or even a happy mom — Mom has had to navigate her identity, balancing society's expectations and her own. Maybe she's new at this. Maybe she's struggling and can't do what she used to. Maybe she simply needs a "thank you." As we celebrate, let's remember this:
This Mother’s Day, we should indeed reflect on the integral and unique role that women play in raising children and contributing to society in immeasurable ways. But in doing so, let this reflection show each mother in full color rather than reducing them to black and white.
A reminder of loss
Mother's Day can be an emotional grenade for people who have lost their mothers, no matter their age. It's also a painful reminder to women who want to be mothers but aren't, whether due to a miscarriage, loss of a child or infertility. Here's what you can say (and not say) to people hurting over motherhood.
A reminder of what's important
If your mom is on Facebook, put your writing cap on. And find that perfect photo. And post early. Pressure's on — even NASCAR stars are writing tear-jerking letters to mom. But rather than forcing everyone to pose at Mother's Day brunch just so you have an Instagram-worthy pic, maybe commit to taking photos of her all year round and sit and talk instead. Better yet, interview her for posterity and really listen. Better still, skip the crowded restaurants and let her read a good book in bed while you whip up a recipe she'll love — with a Mother's Day playlist to boot.
A reminder you're late!
If you're willing to pay for rushed delivery (or pick them up yourself), many of the top 19 Mother's Day gifts of 2017 are still available. An option that's available up to the very last second and ensures good karma, too: a donation in her name to a charity that does something important, such as supporting women and girls, preventing and curing breast cancer or any of these non-profits with perfect CharityNavigator.com scores.