As we prepare for Mother’s Day and scramble to find the ‘best’ gift, we forget that mothers are often taken for granted every other day of the year. Every day should be mother’s day right? Think about it, why dedicate one day to tell mom how much you appreciate and love her? The answer may be because we forget to do it. If you are fortunate to have a loving mother in your life, how often do you reciprocate that love? We put a lot of value in diamond necklaces, beauty products, photo frames and flowers, but sometimes simple words matter more than the material possessions that we use to gloss over the meaning of Mother’s Day. Here are some phrase that moms don’t hear enough:
"I admire you"
I admire how much knowledge and wisdom you have. Sometimes as children we forget that our mothers had lives before she had us. When you were born, your mother’s life became centralized around you and motherhood. How can you not admire that selfless love?
"I understand"
Moms have a habit of scolding and criticizing, But it's not because they are out to get you. Their bits of tips that may initially annoy you, but they also may mean a lot in the future.
"How are you?"
How often do we ask this and mean it? Do you ever call her to genuinely ask her if she is doing well?
"I miss you"
If you distance separates you and your mom, do you tell her you miss her? A phone call with my mom makes both of our days sometimes.
"I’m Sorry"
I don’t know where to start with this one. Sometimes we don't know the effect of our words. This goes for anyone, not just for mothers. Yes, moms may seem like their invisible sometimes, but they're not. As children we can hurt them with words or our actions. In relationships with our mom it's important to learn how to apologize.
"Thank you"
Sometime it takes a simple “thank you for being my mother.” Thank them for always being there even when you thought you didn't need them. Thank her for her sacrifices that she made over the years. You appreciate how she cared for you because that care helped shape how you are today. Also, make sure you say thank you for all the little things.
"I need you"
Moms want to feel need sometimes. They want to play a role in your busy life.
"I love you"
Say it and mean it.
"I know you love me"
I'm not saying it's wrong to get your mom a gift on Valentine's Day. That's not what I'm saying at all. However, if you give a gift, make sure there isn't an empty meaning or a generic card without any heart-filled message. If you want to show her you care, sometimes a simple "I love you" or "Thank you" means a lot.
