May 10, 2015
By Asha Rego
Whom do I turn to when my socks are missing? - mom
Whom do I turn to when I know I am going to be late to school and my bag is not packed? - mom
Whom do I turn to when I do not feel good? - mom
Whom do I turn to when I am hungry? - mom
Who is the one who is most often taken for granted? - mom
Who gets the most criticism and yet is depended on the most? - mom
A warm and understanding being with infinite patience who showers her child with love that never runs out of stock. She is a shelter at any time of the day and an ever guiding light to her child when the journey of life seems dim. With no demands on her offspring she only yearns deep down for her rightful share of love, care and attention when she feels neglected by her precious ones who get drowned in their busy world.
How wonderful to have a day dedicated to someone we cannot do without. Mother's day came into existence through the efforts of Anna Jervis and Julia Ward Howe. It is the celebration of the bond of love and affection between a mother and her child. This special day usually falls on the second Sunday of May which will be May 10 this year.
Going through the different stages of pregnancy, childbirth and from then on the trying period of motherhood involves a few hardships on the way. Mother's Day is an occasion where the child acknowledges the efforts and expresses his/her love for the mother through Mother's Day cards, flowers, chocolates etc. However, the greatest joy a mother can receive is love, care and respect for her selfless efforts.
On further reflection, the sacrifices involved day in and day out without fail and without a break towards ensuring the well being of their children, only brings on the conviction that Mother’s Day ought to be an everyday affair.
The first word on the lips of a small child that is most often heard is ‘mama’. We believe that only mama can protect us from every possible danger. She is the only companion we trust to take us anywhere we want to go. With utmost trust we place our tiny hand into hers for security and comfort. For any small wound be it external or internal, small or big there is no better doctor than this God given gift. She is our world and the focal point of our life.
Two little children have very beautifully and innocently given their inputs. Nine-year-old Gareth Moras says, "Mother’s Day is the celebration of mothers who were created by God as He cannot take care of everyone." Gareth’s message to the most important person in his life is, "Happy Mother’s Day mama. Thank you for everything you do for us."
His six-year-old sister Nikita Moras says, "Mother’s Day is celebrated for mothers to enjoy a day of rest. For me, my mama means love and care. She is my best friend forever and God chose her to be my mama." Nikita’s message to mum is, "Thank you mama for all the things you have done in my life. You guide me, care for me and love me. You are a true mother."
To a mother who can only reminisce the glorious moments she has had when her mother was alive and is now no more: "I miss you lots, mum. I was under the wrong impression that grown ups never miss their mothers. I feel your loss especially when certain decisions need to be made and you are not around to give me advice. I wish I could share those moments that would surely bring a look of joy on your face. Alas! That is not to be. In your absence I can only say the days of your presence were wonderful days and our relationship was special. Mummy dear, I love you and will try to be that mother to my child as you were to me. Thank you mummy."
Here is wishing 'Happy Mama's Day' to all the great mums in the world for the mental, physical and spiritual strength they possess, the courage and confidence they instil in their precious gifts of love.