Mother’s Day is a holiday honoring devoted mothers from different forms of life every May. The holiday originated in Ancient Greece and Rome and was meant to celebrate mother goddesses like Rhea and Cybele, both correlated with motherhood. The holiday became national in the U.S. after Anna Jarvis campaigned that Mother’s Day should be a national holiday, mourning the loss of her own mother. Jarvis was an activist and fought for the holiday’s commercial and political exploitation.
Today, millions around the country celebrate Mother’s Day by honoring and showing gratitude to prominent female figures who have had a lasting impact on them.
Cardozo students reflected on what their mothers mean to them, and how they have influenced them in a positive way over the years — giving them a spotlight during this season of celebration.
Sophomore Sienna Lin explained, “My mom has influenced my life and choices by allowing me to follow my desires and what I want while also choosing the right decision for me and the choice that gives me the most success.”
“A favorite memory that I share with my mother is the times where we would go on walks together and just debrief. These debrief sessions mean a lot to me and make me realize that I have such a supportive mom that I should always appreciate,” she added.
Lin also said that one thing she really appreciates about her mother is that she is always there for her. “I appreciate how I’m able to tell her anything and she’ll give me meaningful advice and feedback no matter what,” she said.
Freshman Fara-Olivia Miller opened up about celebrating both her mom and her stepmom. “I usually get my mom and stepmom gifts and we would go out to eat with my grandma.”
She added, “Years ago I made her a painting for Mother’s Day during Covid and it is hanging in her office now. It brings me joy seeing it every time I enter her office.” Her mom, Miller also shared, really good at reading people and she taught her how to tell how someone is feeling just by looking at them.
Looking back, junior Amelia Lazo Chung said that “every day felt like Mother’s Day,” because she was always with her family.
“I consider Mother’s Day as a special day to celebrate my mom and be grateful that I have her in my life. She supports everything I want to do and helps make it happen,” she said. “Every year on Mother’s Day We usually go out to eat and spend time together. In every way. I’m a reflection of her — how I speak, dress, and believe in myself.”
Many mothers are known for being selfless, like sophomore Alana Gani, who said, “One thing I appreciate the most about my mom is the way she always puts others first. She has an incredible ability to juggle so many responsibilities without ever complaining. Her selflessness and constant care make everything run smoothly, even on the toughest days.”
Gani added that her mom doesn’t always get recognition for all that she does for her family. “It’s that quiet strength and dedication that I admire most about her.”
“My mom inspires me every day with her strength and selflessness. She never gives up, no matter how tough things get, and she always puts others before herself. The way she balances everything, work, family, and still makes time to care about the little things, makes me want to be a better person,” Gani added.
Happy Mother’s Day to all of those who celebrate, and don’t forget to honor that special woman in your life — mother, grandmother, stepmother, aunt, sister, cousin — whoever helps you get by day to day.
