Spring brings new life around each corner and we enjoy seeing growing bellies as moms visit our birthing centers. This spring, we are happy to take time to salute all mothers and mother figures for the widely celebrated Mother’s Day holiday. At Labor of Love, we recognize the extensive array of emotions this day can bring. Mother’s Day is celebrated in more than 40 countries worldwide. Although the season or time of year may vary for this celebration, love for mother is often shown with flowers, cards, hugs, kisses or a special meal made by someone other than mom.
The origin of Mother’s Day is quite different from how we celebrate today. Julia Ward Howe, author of Battle Hymn of the Republic, was horrified with the effects of both the American Civil War and the Franco-Prussian War. Julia made an “impassioned ‘appeal to womanhood’” to rise against war. She was inspired by an Appalachian homemaker, Ann Marie Reeves Jarvis, who taught basic sanitation and nursing skills to other women in order to improve the outcomes or save lives of men and women on both sides of the American Civil War. This particular plea for peace became the first Mother’s Day. Later, Ann Marie’s daughter, Anna Jarvis, petitioned for the Mother’s Day holiday we are familiar with today. After her mother’s passing, Anna longed for a way to remember her.
Labor of Love supports moms and the family unit in several ways through programs and community resources. We offer prenatal education, free webinars, a new parent support group, “The Story of You” book and home visiting. Please call us for details on any of these opportunities at 505.727.7677. Mothering is a place where life leaves an imprint. We are honored to celebrate this special time of growth with you.
This blog was written by Catherine Roth, Community Health Education B.S., Community Health Worker, Labor of Love, and Darlene Lundquist, RN, Community Health Worker, Labor of Love.