On May 11, 2025, families around the world will come together to celebrate International Mother’s Day, a heartfelt occasion dedicated to honoring mothers for their love and sacrifices. This year, the holiday falls on the second Sunday of May, a tradition that spans across continents including Europe, Africa, America, Australia, China, and Japan.
International Mother’s Day has a rich history, originating over a century ago thanks to the tireless efforts of American activist Anna Maria Reeves. Born in 1832, Reeves experienced profound personal tragedy, losing nine children during her lifetime. This heartbreaking series of events spurred her to advocate for better sanitary conditions and healthcare for children. In 1858, she established working clubs aimed at improving health standards and supporting mothers in their care for children.
Reeves’ campaign gained significant traction, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially declared the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day in honor of her work. As a result, this day has evolved into a global celebration where children express their gratitude through various gestures, including spending quality time with their mothers, giving flowers, and presenting handmade gifts.
In Ukraine, Mother’s Day is also celebrated on this day, reinforcing the importance of family and the bonds between mothers and their children. The holiday is marked by heartfelt expressions of love and appreciation, with many families taking the opportunity to share warm words and thoughtful gifts. As noted by the publication Telegraph, it is a time for families to come together, reflecting on the nurturing roles mothers play in their lives.
Traditionally, children are encouraged to thank their mothers for their unwavering support and love, not just on this special day but throughout the year. Gifts often include flowers, cards, and other tokens of affection that symbolize the deep appreciation children have for their mothers.
In addition to Mother’s Day, May 11 is also recognized for other observances. For instance, it marks the establishment of police protection for the Moscow Metro, a vital service that ensures the safety of millions of daily commuters. This initiative began on May 11, 1935, just days before the first line of the metro was inaugurated. Today, the security measures in place include regular inspections of stations and trains, bolstered by the assistance of trained canine units since 1996.
Moreover, May 11 is a day of reflection within the Christian community, as it coincides with the feast day of Saint Cyril of Turaw, a 12th-century Russian thinker and writer. His contributions to literature and theology are celebrated, highlighting the diverse ways in which this date is observed across cultures.
As families prepare for Mother’s Day, many are also reminded of the importance of environmental awareness, as May 11 is recognized as the Day of Love for Nature. This observance encourages individuals to reflect on their relationships with the environment and take steps to promote sustainability.
In the spirit of celebration, various media outlets have curated beautiful cards and images that people can share with their mothers. These visual tokens of affection serve as a reminder of the love and appreciation that is often expressed through simple yet meaningful gestures.
As the day approaches, many are sharing their plans and ideas for making their mothers feel special. Whether through a homemade meal, a heartfelt message, or a simple phone call, the essence of Mother’s Day lies in the thoughtfulness behind these actions.
In conclusion, International Mother’s Day on May 11, 2025, serves as a poignant reminder of the vital role mothers play in our lives. It is a day to celebrate their love, resilience, and the countless ways they enrich our experiences. As families around the world prepare to honor their mothers, the spirit of gratitude and love will undoubtedly shine through, making this day a truly special occasion.
