Every year on the second Sunday of May, many countries in Europe, Africa, North and South America, Australia, China and Japan celebrate one of the brightest and kindest holidays — Mother's Day.
This holiday is over a hundred years old. Although the origins of the celebration of Mother's Day may be to be found in the spring holidays that the inhabitants of ancient Greece dedicated to Rhea, the mother of the great god Zeus. Beginning in 1600, a tradition of celebrating Mother's Sunday appeared in England. On this day, which fell on the fourth Sunday of Lent, mothers were honored. And on this day it was impossible to work; it was necessary to visit the parents.
The story of today's Mother's Day is this. In 1907, young American Anna Jarvis from West Virginia took the initiative to honor mothers in memory of her mother, who passed away prematurely. Anna wrote letters to government agencies, legislative bodies, and outstanding individuals with a proposal to devote one day a year to honoring mothers.
Her efforts were crowned with the success of — in 1910, the state of Virginia was the first to recognize Mother's Day as an official holiday. In 1912, the International Mother's Day Association was formed with the aim of spreading a conscious celebration of the day. Although in essence this is a — holiday of eternity: from generation to generation, for each of us, mother — is the most important person. Since 1914, this holiday has received official status in the United States.
Of course, Mother's Day — is one of the most touching holidays, because from childhood until our last days we all carry in our souls the only and unique image — the image of our mother, who will understand, forgive, always regret and love selflessly no matter what.
The happiness and beauty of motherhood have been glorified by the best artists and poets in all centuries. And it is no coincidence that — from how revered a woman raising children is in the state, one can determine the degree of culture and well-being of society. Happy children grow up in a friendly family and under the care of a happy mother.
On this day, children congratulate their beloved mothers on their holiday with gratitude for their tireless care, patience, love and devotion. And men thank not only their mothers, but also their wives, who gave them the joy of fatherhood. In many countries, in honor of this holiday, it is customary to organize festive evenings, exhibitions, and concerts... Mothers are given flowers, small souvenirs, pleasant little things, unexpected surprises and hot kisses on this day. Although the main gift — is attention. And, of course, today’s holiday will not be complete without dinner with the family.
Let us remind you that in Russia Mother's Day is celebrated annually on the last Sunday of November. In a number of other countries around the world, this holiday falls on different days of the year.
• Infographics: poster «Mother's Day»
• Story «Everything will be fine, mom»