I think what all mothers want to know on this special day (and every day) is that they are loved and appreciated by their spouse and children. Writing a sincere mother’s day card can convey that message!
A bouquet of flowers, a box of chocolates, a new bracelet or necklace- these are all very nice gifts to receive- don’t get me wrong! BUT- thoughtful words of appreciation will be the most meaningful to your mother on Mother’s Day. (or any special woman in your life- from now on I will refer to as “mom” but insert with whoever you are writing to)
We all know that mothers do an insane amount of work for very little recognition. The house cleaning, cooking, laundry, planning, reading, comforting, helping, encouraging, teaching.. the list could go on. It’s a lot!
You had better be thankful. And she deserves to hear your sincere thanks!
I’ve created this simple guide to help you think through what you truly appreciate about your mom and how to put it down on paper for her to read (and probably cry over).
Benefits of Writing a Mother’s Day Card
It’s a truly thoughtful gift of more value than any item. Your mother will feel recognized for her hard work, diligence and love.
You also get the opportunity to think deeply about what you truly appreciate in your mom, which will foster a better relationship between you two. Gratitude is also associated with greater happiness, according to many psychology studies (read more here). So don’t do it because of this, but you’ll benefit too!
Plan Your Mother’s Day Card
Get out a pen and paper and go through the following exercises, writing down your memories and thoughts. Afterwards we will form them into a letter.
Recall Fond Memories
Think back as early as you can to fun and meaningful experiences (whether seemingly insignificant or significant) with your mom. My long-term memory isn’t the greatest, so I find it helpful to look through old pictures to jog my memory. Write them down as you think of them.
List Her Greatest Attributes
How would you describe your mom? Which attributes does she have that you truly admire and that make her who she is? What made her and makes her an amazing mother to YOU? Jot down your thoughts.
What Has She Taught You?
Mothers teach us physical, intellectual, mental, emotional and spiritual values and skills. What are the most significant ones that have impacted the trajectory of your life? How did she teach them to you? Directly or through her example? And with great patience, I’m sure. 😉
What Did She Endure Because of You?
Most of us were terrors to our mothers at some point. What did you put her through? How did she lovingly handle it? This exercise should help you feel even more gratitude towards your mom, especially after thinking on how you tortured her in years passed. And she still loved and supported you. Amazing!
Put It All Together
Now that you’ve got some thoughts down on the ways your mother has impacted you, it’s time to write the card/letter. It doesn’t have to be long, but it must be sincere, and you don’t need to include every little thing you thought of while brainstorming. Choose any order you want, but I suggest writing something on each of the 4 topics (experiences, attributes, what she taught, what she endured). It will give a well-rounded view of how you feel about your mom, and she’ll so appreciate it.
I thought about giving an example, but I really feel this needs to come right from YOU! It can be tempting to copy or rephrase what others have said, but it will be most meaningful to your mom if you truly write it on your own.
What If My Mom Has Passed Away?
I think this is an excellent exercise to do even if your mom is no longer with you (physically). It will help you feel more appreciative as well as closer to her as you think about her significant impact on your life.
Did you do it? How was it received and how do you feel? I hope this inspired you to be more thoughtful and intentional in your gift-giving. Happy Mother’s Day!
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