Editor's Notebook: Show Mom the Appreciation She Deserves

I’m a self-proclaimed mama’s boy and couldn’t be more proud of it.

I didn’t bring many things to my apartment when I moved to St. James almost a year ago but I made sure to bring one photo, my favorite photo – my mother and I right before my high school graduation. I live on my own but I made sure that I had a reminder of the most important person in my life with me.

I feel it’s important to celebrate having the company and companionship of your loved ones every day, not leaving the appreciation to just holidays or birthdays, but Mother’s Day is especially important because this one day gives you the chance to show how important the woman that brought you into this world is to you.

Often we underestimate the importance and efforts of our mothers, or simply take them for granted because we know she will always be there, but if you took a second to think about those efforts you’ll see how important she really is. 

Who better to comfort you after a bad day in elementary school? Who could prepare you for the all-important first date with your first girlfriend or boyfriend? Of course she’s going to tell you that you look great and it will go well, but that boost of confidence is necessary. Is there anyone you want to run up to and hug after high school graduation before mom? I think not. And her cooking, no matter what she is preparing, is always better than running out for fast food. 

When I received my master’s degree from Hofstra University I couldn’t wait to see my mom because as much as I knew my whole family was going to be happy for me the smile on my mom’s face would validate all the hard work and effort I put forth in getting my degree – and you better believe that smile was on her face and I couldn’t have been happier. 

With Mother’s Day here I implore you, I urge you, to make sure your mom knows how special she truly is. Get her that gift that suits her, take her to her favorite restaurant for lunch or dinner, and tell her you love her. If you have a sister, a cousin or anyone close to you who has a child let them know how special they are too. 

We all may be able to tell these beautiful, important woman how special they are daily, but they have this day for a reason, so go above and beyond and really put in the effort they’ll appreciate, the effort they deserve.