Happy Mothers Day 2011

It was not until May 9, 1914 that President Woodrow Wilson declared a national Mothers Day to be observed on the second Sunday in May. Today, Mothers Day is observed as a special occasion to show gratitude to all mothers for all they are. Mothers represent a myriad of very special individuals. In every society they are by nature the center of family life and continuity.

Julia Ward Howe, often referred to as The Queen of America and credited by some as the founder of Mothers Day was passionate about women’s rights including women suffrage, prison reform and education. These are issues that shape the quality of society.

She was a writer, poet, preacher and reformer – all in one. To a very large extent, that is the picture of mothers – many roles in one person. In her vision, Mothers Day was to be a special council of women to discuss protection of children and attainment of world peace.

For 40 years after her husband’s death, and committed to a life purpose, convinced to be  answerable to her conscience and to God only, Julia travelled the world for those causes she believed in.

Today, in Cincinnati and around the world, mothers are carrying forward the legacies of pioneers like Julia. It is fitting to pay special tribute to those mothers in poor neighborhoods like Over the Rhine. They are mothers and “fathers” to extended families. All around the nation, more and more mothers are also their grandchildren’s “mothers”.

Imagine a community without them! If only every community could embrace those qualities that emphasize protection of children and families as exemplified in the life of Julia Ward Howe!

Happy Mothers Day all you wonderful mothers!