UK Mothers’ Day

It’s their big chance to let us know how much they appreciate us. All those meals and clean clothes and fevers nursed and lifts given. All those sheets tucked in, phone bills paid, teachers meetings attended, and birthday parties hosted. All those noses wiped and scowling faces smiled at.
For once, I’m glad that it is so commercialised. With all that bombardment, there is no way they can forget. Spare me the cut flowers, forget the boxed chocolates and as for the ‘hilarious’ novelty cards…
But bring on the acknowledgement, appreciation, gratitude – preferably in writing, preferably in spadefuls… on a home-made card. This needs not to be a rushed job, mind you. The care and time taken is part of the offering. A garage bouquet and quickly scribbled shop-bought card just won’t cut it. No, I want heart-felt declarations of love and appreciation.

But what if they don’t? This happened to me one year and they’ll never forget it. I won’t let them. Into their forgetfulness I read all manner of disregard. I was DEEPLY wounded. And their father was held to account too. I even offered them the opportunity for reparation by suggesting the whole event be postponed to the following Sunday. They did not take me up on this.

So I thought I would write this post early and email them the link, so there will be no …misunderstanding. Make sure they are aware of the consequences of inaction (I know where you live!). Imagine if the mother went on strike. In employment we expect payment and would withdraw our services if our efforts were not rewarded. Well, this Mother’s Day, if those hand-made cards – which I shall save and treasure mind you – do not appear then consider the mothering unit closed.

Taken for granted I will not be! Be warned.

For honesty’s sake: actually my kids appreciate me all the time with kisses and cards and all sorts. This was written tongue in cheek.