Treat your mom to peace

Mother’s Day, one of my favorite days of the year, is just around the corner [on Sunday, May 8]. I’ve never been much of a holiday person, but Mother’s Day has always held a special place in my heart, and perhaps more so now that I am a mom.

My mom definitely deserved a special day dedicated to appreciating her unconditional love, endless generosity and spontaneous spirit that always kept our lives exciting. I always loved the delight on her face on Mother’s Day as my siblings and I opened her door in the morning with a tray of homemade breakfast. We’d sit on her bed as she ate appreciatively and then pass her our homemade cards that she requested and adored. We’d later spend much of the day together taking a hike, watching a movie or making more meals.

Many countries around the world have a special day to honor mothers. The origin of Mother’s Day in the United States is intriguing. One of the early movements to celebrate the day in our country was marked by the Mother’s Day Proclamation by Julia Ward Howe. It was written in 1870 as a pacifist reaction to the lives lost in the American Civil War and the Franco-Prussian War. The proclamation was tied to the “feminist” belief that women had a responsibility to shape their societies at the political level. Today, most mothers still resonate with such sentiments, and many are interested in creating peace not only in their homes, but also in the world.

This year, the Chico Peace and Justice Center is celebrating mothers in a way that honors the holiday’s history. It is hosting a Fair Trade Chocolate and Wine Tasting event on Mother’s Day. Fair-trade goods are made in safe and healthful working conditions where farmers and producers receive a fair price and have a voice in how their workplaces are run. I’m thrilled at the thought of being treated to delicious chocolate that delights not only my taste buds, but my conscience as well.

What are you doing to celebrate your mom this year? Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we honored our mothers while doing something morally in line with the origin of the day? Perhaps you can treat her to a treat or activity that also supports a greater cause. What else could a mom want?