On last Sunday one of our nation’s most popular annual observances brought families together from coast to coast. Regardless of age, race or national origin, we all have one thing in common–a mother.
This observance is of particular significance to me as it was in the late evening of Mother’s Day, 1953 that I had to head out late in the night for Los Angeles General Hospital where my first born was delivered the next afternoon, May 11, 1953–a 9-lb 6 oz boy that was due in April! To date he remains cool, witty and laid back with his own successful photography business in LA centered around pre-school children–with whom he has amazing charm and wit enabling him to create fantastic poses.
Webster defines mother as “That which is the origin, source or nurturer of something.” The big three that immediately come to mind are Mother Nature, Mother Earth and all bearers of infants, whether human or otherwise.
The human brain is incapable of grasping the inconceivable mysteries of Mother Nature in her vastness, but all must admire her indescribable beauty as she changes her garb with the seasons.
The most underrated of all, however is Mother Earth, considered the lowest form of matter–“as low or as cheap as dirt!” Yet all forms of life come from her, must return to her at some point in some form, and are totally dependent upon her in between–for food, clothing and all material things! All precious gems and minerals of the earth are also hidden in her bosom.
Another unique feature of motherhood is protection of her young, a trend fast becoming outmoded among today’s young mothers who more frequently leave them to the care of professionals, family members, friends or others. The greater risk is that the moral fiber instilled by the elders of yesteryear–when several generations either lived within one home place or at least near by, is less likely in today’s more modern society.
Mother’s Day, however still draws more diverse families together across all divides. So was the observance within our family this year as the head males prepared and served the Mothers’ Day meal for all. It was an exceptionally rewarding experience that gave new meaning and cohesion to the observance.
Although the annual observance has passed, the new twist to it has added new dimensions to uniting families of ever widening diversity of age, associates and interests. Let’s not wait ‘til next Mothers’ Day or other national holidays to hold family gatherings for the best impressions are those demonstrated, to our youth in particular, as opposed to those on sitcoms, TV or other forms of media. I call mine Blue Blood family gatherings when all family members gather at the same dinner table, regardless of age, to contribute to the discussions of the day. It’s not easy to accomplish but it’s worth a try–again and again. Every little bit helps.
Now, excuse me while I try to get them to gather around the piano–to learn to sing in 4-part choral harmony!
