Another thing I always do is to donate to the American Cancer Society in honor of my mom, who died on Mother's Day in 1989 from ovarian cancer that had spread. I also frequently remember in prayer my mom and grandmothers and all the other ladies that influenced me while growing up. I remember the men in my life in a different prayer. When I do something in the name of a loved one, it is honoring their soul and I am thankful that there is still something I can do in appreciation for them and their influence on me. That eases the "pain" of separation and it is like they are still with me--in spirit, of course.
Our dear mother who passed away five years ago told us never to worry about Mother's Day since we treated her as though every day was Mother's Day. It may help to regard the whole thing as a commercial holiday rather than a significant event to celebrate. I hope I'm not sounding hard hearted here.
Not particularly on Mother's Day, but my 93 year old spouse fixates on his mother's birthday every year, commenting on how old she would be, etc. He now has dementia, but it has not interfered with this fixation even though he does get confused about what day/date it currently is. I do remember when it is my Mother's birthday, but do not particularly dwell on it.
I am glad you touched on this topic. This year my family is gathering with other family members and friends on Mother's Day. We knew the friends' parents and they knew ours and we've liked each other for almost 70 years. It is a way of extending the friendship my parents had with our friends' parents through the children. One year we all brought jello dishes for Mothers Day because my mom always made jello for family gatherings. Some were very creatively done and it added some levity. My mom would have loved it. I am so deeply aware of the effect of my mom's love for me and how that enables me to love others and am so thankful I was raised with such care. Both my sister and I do not hesitate to help others outside the family with their needs as their health conditions change--driving them to appointments, seeing to their care. I think our mom taught us well! When we do this, it is another way of honoring her memory.
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5 Ways to Remember Mom on Mother’s Day
One year we all brought jello dishes for Mothers Day because my mom always made jello for family gatherings. Some were very creatively done and it added some levity. My mom would have loved it.
I am so deeply aware of the effect of my mom's love for me and how that enables me to love others and am so thankful I was raised with such care.
Both my sister and I do not hesitate to help others outside the family with their needs as their health conditions change--driving them to appointments, seeing to their care. I think our mom taught us well! When we do this, it is another way of honoring her memory.