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Mother’s Day is one of those holidays that carries both warmth and weight, and we’re sharing Mother’s Day messages from our readers. Though it’s simple in concept—celebrate moms—it’s often complex in reality. Not everyone can or wants to participate.
For some, the day is mom-affirming. For others, it surfaces grief, absence, or unresolved pain. As author Hope Edelman writes in Motherless Daughters, “No matter how old we are, we yearn for a mother’s love throughout our lives, reaching for the security and comfort we believe only she can provide at times of illness, transition, or stress.”
The holiday itself was inspired more than a century ago when Anna Maria Jarvis set out to fulfill her late mother’s wish of establishing a day honoring moms. On May 10, 1908, she hosted an unofficial tribute. In 1914, Mother’s Day became a national holiday.
Now, 111 years later, Mother’s Day still holds a place on our calendars—and in our hearts.
This year, we asked our readers to write a note to their moms to mark the occasion. The results? Sweet, raw, grateful, honest. A reminder that maternal love—whether we had it, lost it, or are still searching for it—leaves a mark.
Here are your words. Shared with reverence.
What We Couldn’t Say Then
My mother is a poem I’ll never be able to write, though everything I write is a poem to her.
—Sharon Doubiago
For Joan:
Still Mine
She never said “I love you,”
but I heard she told strangers.
She hoarded dishes and hid bologna sandwiches.
She yelled more than she touched.
I was the seen one—bright and unbending.
Did she mistake that for defiance?
She didn’t raise me to be strong—
she just didn’t stop me.
She was a force—brilliance, and resolve
I never saw coming.
She left poems in junk drawers,
too much life unfinished.
Did she think she failed,
or was she simply done?
Still, I carry her contradictions—
her fire, her static.
Not tidy. Not resolved.
But still mine.
—Susan
For Sharon B:
The Universe Always Has a Better Plan
Twenty years ago—a cold day on a busy street in Queens, I stood at the edge of being and nothingness. While I contemplated the logistics of my death, the universe tapped on my shoulder, planting a single seed of doubt. It wasn’t my time, they said.
Twenty years ago—a cold day on a busy street in Queens, I stood empty and hollow. But the universe had a better plan.
Today, I look into my daughters’ eyes, only to find that life is an embarrassment of riches. Happy Mother’s Day to me. —Sharon B.
For Selma:
My mother was a brilliant feminist historian and the author of seven books. She had a hard time understanding me, the daughter who often wrote poetry in math class or skipped it entirely. We butted heads until she got dementia and became a very charming woman who I didn’t recognize. When a nurse told me that she would miss my mother after she passed away, I thought, “She’s got to be kidding!” Years later, it turned out that I would miss her, too. Happy Mother’s Day, Mom! —Wendy
For Patricia:
I saw them, mother and daughter
looking alike, walking hand in hand,
laughing as they walked past the
stores. Instead of moving around
me, they walked straight through
my heart, wrapping their hands
around the broken pieces
where my memories of you
dance in and out of my days.
When I was sick and life was hard,
you held my hand and never left my side.
When I was better
and you were heartbroken with grief,
I held your hand,
whispering that I would never leave you.
Whatever we were doing,
I was home the moment I felt your hand. —Dawn MC
For Betty:
I can laugh now at what made me cringe, what hurt, and what puzzled me. It’s taken 18 years, but I’m ready to let it all go and to feel only understanding and forgiveness. I’m not a perfect mother either, but I have come to appreciate what it takes to try my best and fall short sometimes. Still, I think you’d be proud of me in your heart even though the words were hard for you to say. I hope you are truly at peace. —Risa
For Lesley:
“The sparrows are hungry,” my mother mumbles about the birds only she can see. I nod, wheel her closer to the red and yellow trees at the park’s edge. Wait for her to tell the story she repeats, used to repeat, every fall about the time my brother asked who painted the forest. Nothing. Hand her the bagel she refused this morning. (Eat. Another thing she used to do.) She drops it on the ground. Nothing. “Dumb birds won’t eat a New York bagel, Ma.” Suddenly, two small birds land near her wheelchair. Nothing. She almost smiles. I almost smile, too. —Beth
For Talya:
To my daughter who wisely took my granddaughter out of a terrible school and carried out a perfect home-schooling situation, reads Jane Eyre with her each night, blends humor, firmness, but above all affectionate love and acceptance as a parent, writes as though the heavens were dictating to her, knits beautiful creations, cooks complicated vegetarian meals, constantly reads and fully loves great literature, and who thinks her own thoughts and goes her own way. —Karin
For Margaret:
My mom was raised in Uvalde and like most Texans, she never met a stranger and loved a good joke! I was the last of six kids and the only child of her union with my Dad, a cattle rancher. When I was six, we moved to Denver where she became a nurse and raised three of us by herself. She taught us honesty, love, and to never give up your dreams. She took us on impromptu picnics to mountains and amusement parks.Thanks for your love, sacrifices, and showing me that being a mom is the greatest honor in life. —Sue Ann
When Grief Speaks
There is something about losing a mother that is permanent and inexpressible—a wound that will never quite heal.
—Susan Wiggs
For Emily:
This Mother’s Day is the first time I am celebrating the holiday without my mom. Since her passing in October, I have found myself overwhelmed with gratitude for all the wisdom she shared with me.
Mom was a female entrepreneur in the ’60s and ’70s, a time when that was not a typical path for a mother. She instilled a strong work ethic in my brother, sister, and me, showed us the meaning of opportunity, and demonstrated that if you believe in yourself, you can achieve big dreams. When someone says, “Like mother, like daughter” to me, there is no greater compliment. —Celeste
For Dorothy:
Mom, you’ve left this earth
But soon your great-grandchild comes
Your love will live on. —Judy
For Brenda:
In February, I bought five sweaters at a fantastic price. Three are cardigans, one is a ribbed turtleneck, and one has a V-neck. All different colors, including black. I keep wanting to tell you that. You taught me not to buy junk just because it’s on sale, but these were a find. You may be gone, but I still remember.
Bad things have happened all over, but we’re okay. Your grandson is learning carpentry in a community for people on the spectrum. He loves it.
We miss you.
Oh … the Mets started off strong this season. Fingers crossed. —Hannah
For Florence:
A special part of my elementary school years was walking home from school to have lunch with mom. It was a cherished time for just the two of us. Dad was at work, and my big sister at school. Mom would set a formal table and serve my favorites. In winter there was always hot soup—we both loved cream of asparagus.
Time passed. We each aged. When mom was in her 80s, I was able to return the favor with weekend lunches. The menu was favorites from our neighborhood Italian deli. If magic existed, I’d share one more lunch with mom. —Helen
For Janet:
I smile when I think of you
I cry when I just want to hear your voice.
I think of all the things you taught me
I love how you loved each of us in your own way.
I know your faith runs deep
I pray you and dad are dancing in heaven.
I will always cherish you
I am glad I was able to spend time with you.
I share your stories all the time
I still laugh at your silly expressions.
I hold dear and deep in my heart that you were the best mom.
I love you and miss you, but I know you are in a better place with dad.
Hugs and much love. —💕Maureen
For Ferol:
My mom stayed home with me when I was young. I had a nice midwestern upbringing. She was a good cook, my Girl Scout leader, and supported me in my activities. When I got married and moved to Phoenix, and later to Texas, my parents became snowbirds, then eventually moved near us full time. She attended the weddings of all four of my daughters. Mom moved into independent living until she needed memory care. On the day she was to move in, she fell. Nine days later, she passed away. I miss her, and loved her very much. —Barb
For Clara:
We shared only 11 years together on this earth, but no one has left a deeper mark on my life. You were everything—talented, artistic, beautiful, and kind. You opened my eyes to art, beauty, and style. You emphasized the value of education and inspired my love for books. Life wasn’t easy, but you faced it with strength and perseverance. Your hands were tools of creation, crafting what couldn’t be bought and teaching me the worth of self-reliance. I followed your example and became what I needed. There was no goodbye—but that’s okay. You live on in my heart, and you always will. —Vilma
For Sharon:
Dear Mom,
I miss you so very much. Despite your challenges, I knew I was loved. You gave me faith in God and three wonderful aunts. We shared an interest in books, dogs, and gardening. Thanks so much for raising my brother and me. We miss you and we all need your prayers. Love you forever —💔Sharon M.
For Mary Ann:
My mom’s daffodils have bloomed in time for Mother’s Day, carpeting the front yard yellow at her family home that dates back to 1888, for all to enjoy! Her mother and grandmother nurtured lilacs, violets, sweet peas, nasturtiums, daisies, and poppies in that same garden. Their lilacs and poppies still bloom annually. My mom honored their tradition by adding daffodils to this historic plot. Now that she’s gone, looking in on our dad keeps us sisters busy, so thankfully, the daffodils thrive with little attention from us. My mom’s spirit blooms with the beauty and tradition of her flowers every spring! —Katie
For Marcia:
I miss her when I can’t remember what works best on insect bites, and when nobody else cares how rude the receptionist at the doctor’s office was to me. Whether she actually would have flown in to act as baby nurse or mailed me cotton balls and calamine lotion if she were alive isn’t really the issue. It’s the fact that I can’t ask her for these things that makes me miss her all over again. ―Hope
For Barbara:
It’s your first Mother’s Day in Heaven. You get to spend it with your mom. I know that makes your heart smile. I know the pain you felt leaving Amanda and me behind was so profound that you tried to stay here on earth for us. As much as we are crushed by your absence, we carry your memory in everything we do. Losing you was a wake-up call to really start living. We are grabbing life by the reins and we aren’t letting go until you are proud of us and until you can look down and say, “My girls are going to be just fine.” We miss our daily conversations the most! And we love you more than words can say. Happy 1st Mother’s Day in Heaven, mommy. —Kristina
For Mary:
Mom,
Not a day goes by without me missing you. The example you set of generosity, unconditional love, and helping others is never forgotten. Happy Heavenly Mother’s Day 2025. —Kandi
She Made Us Who We Are
There is no one way to be a mother … but all good mothers are truth-tellers.
—Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
For Dr. Nancy Atmospera-Walch:
If part of a mom’s role is to show her daughter what is possible as a woman in this world, then mom, you detonated a path through a mountain. You raised us, but you never stopped pushing for and following through on your own dreams. Watching you live your life to the fullest has been my greatest blessing. Love you, mom, and keep checking things off that bucket list. Happy Mother’s Day! —Chris
For Johnnie:
Mom was fierce, in a way that made others safer. Truth to power had nothing on her. She had an extreme sports philosophy about life—there was no point in safety nets. When she went out on a limb, she did it with the confidence that if she fell, she’d think of something on the way down. She always did.
Long ago, mom gave my son the book, The Polar Express, a story about the willingness to participate in life. It’s not so important where the train is going, but that you make the decision to get on. This is something I think about every day. —Constant
For Linda:
My mother is the most faithful woman I have ever known. Throughout her life, she has worked tirelessly—always putting others before herself. Even now, in her mid-80s, her calendar stays so full that I practically have to schedule an appointment just to spend time with her!
Her love for her family, her church, and her many friends runs deep. Her strength and grace are the foundation of our family, and her example continues to guide and inspire us every day.
To put it simply: my mom is the BEST. And I am endlessly grateful to be able to call her mine. —Becky
For Kathy:
You’ve always made me feel like the main character in your story, even when your story was difficult, painful, and anything but easy. Your resilience is inspiring, and you’ve taught me the importance of family, forgiveness, and taking joy in the little things—which in the end, are really the most important things. Without you I wouldn’t have the strength to face my own struggles, and knowing you’re there—no matter what—is the greatest gift I’ve received in my life. Love you more, more, more. —Abby
For Marie:
To my mama—the constant, delicate, quiet force in my life. Guiding me and helping to navigate relationships, family, and everyday nonsense with ease, grace, and wisdom, and without pressure or bias. Her easy smile, care, and invisible hand that gently coaxes me to do what’s right. I cannot imagine the day when she will not be my guiding light, although I know she lives inside me. I cherish her to no end—this beautiful, quirky lady—my mama. Happy Mother’s Day! —Jennifer
For Kasia:
Mom,
Thank you for being the perfect blend of warmth, strength, intelligence, compassion, perseverance, and kindness. You are the ray of sunshine in everyone’s lives. Love you with all my being. Kocham Cie. —Sonja
For Pearl:
Thanks for your commitment to my education! I only wish you’d lived long enough to watch what a success your two boys are today. —JD
For Ruth:
Thanks for all the lessons, especially the ones I didn’t realize I was learning until I became a mom myself (like how much laundry one tiny human can create!). Your amazing example definitely helped me figure out this whole parenting gig. Love you tons! —Adina
For Marcy:
Mom,
You have always set the bar high and expected me to surpass it. You told me early and often I was smart, capable, creative … so that’s who I became. I appreciate your ongoing love and support more than I can say, and hope my children feel they’ve received the same from me.
With my thanks, respect, and of course, love. —Madeleine
For Cynthia:
I’m raising three kids and am constantly overwhelmed. I don’t know how you did it with five! Thanks for letting us all explore our different interests and talents, even if it meant you spent most of your weekends at soccer games and dance studios. —Erika
Ordinary Days, Unforgettable Moms
To describe my mother would be to write about a hurricane in its perfect power.
—Maya Angelou
For Mary:
My 80+ mom has done so many things during her life: earned the first college diploma in her family, traveled, taught, raised a family, and volunteered in her community. But mostly, she has loved. It’s a big love. A love that can be best understood if I tell you about the apple pies. Each Thanksgiving she bakes apple pies. Dozens of pies. She gifts them to family members, neighbors, friends—even acquaintances she thinks might need an extra boost. We savor those pies that come only once a year because they taste like love. And cinnamon. —Jodi
For Jessie:
I love your chicken soup and miss the opportunity to enjoy it sitting next to you. Thanks for being an original. Happy Mother’s Day! —Melissa
For Zoya:
Mama,
We’re a whole ocean apart from each other but I feel your presence every minute. Every single day I try to be a mom to my daughter just like you are to me. I love you so very much. Happy Mother’s Day! —Ola
For Arlene:
My mom is all love
Warm, patient, funny, caring
A lucky daughter
My mom is an unbelievably loving person. From the time I was a little girl, she helped me to believe in myself and made sure I was surrounded by love from our relatives. I have witnessed my parents’ undying love for one another and the true meaning of compassion and kindness. Plus, she always signs off on all of her texts with Love, Mom. Even her messages have the word love in them. How could I not be proud to call this woman my mother, today and everyday? —Debra
For Marilyn:
Strong and gentle, smart and humble, teacher and friend. You taught us the true meaning of love, and we miss you always! —💕Susan
For Becky:
I know it hasn’t always been a smooth ride for us and now that I have my own teenage daughter, let’s just say, I get it. Thank you for always encouraging my imagination, for being willing to be silly, for our private talks when I was young, and our coffee talks when I see you now. I love you. —Dawn
For Oliva:
Mom,
As a first generation Italian American who grew up poor during the depression, you wanted everything for me as your only child. You worked in our family bakery, were a Bluebird Leader, part of the PTA, took me to dance classes, were a Room Mother, and started a Junior Garden Club so you could share your interest in flowers. There were also summer camps, catechism, and mass on Sundays. You made Sunday dinners where you kept our Italian culture alive. You were a great mother. Happy Mother’s Day in Heaven. I’ll be thinking of you on Sunday each time one of my kids calls to wish me a Happy Mother’s Day! —Pamela
Calls, Hugs, and Everyday Love
My mother was my first country, the first place I ever lived.
—Nayyirah Waheed
For Dawn:
Hey my Queen, I love you so, so much, I don’t know what I’d do without you. You’re the most amazing mom anyone could have asked for, and I know I can be annoying, but I mean the best. I love you. —Katy M.
For Agnes:
Dear Mom,
There aren’t enough words I can write, and not enough times I can say them, that would convey the love I have for you. I count myself among the luckiest to be your daughter and to be as close as we are. You’re the one I call for advice, to vent, with big updates, and even out of boredom (LOL). Thank you for picking up the phone and always being present for the most important things in life. I miss you and can’t wait to see you soon.
Happy Mother’s Day to the Greatest of All Time! Love —Gina
For Carol:
Mum,
You’re always there—whether it’s picking up the phone for a quick chat or showing up when things get tough. You’ve shown me what it means to be kind, steady, and endlessly supportive. Your hugs always make me feel like everything just might be okay in the end. I hope one day I can be the kind of mum to my kids that you are to my brother and me. I am so grateful for everything you’ve done and continue to do for our family. —Anneka
For Andrea:
Dear Mom,
Your love and guidance has shaped me into who I am today. Thank you for supporting me in my adventures and for always being there for me.
I love you, Happy Mother’s Day! —Katie D.
For Susan:
Mom, you are a powerhouse. Your intelligence, ambition, curiosity, adaptability, love, and dedication are unmatched. You inspire me. You uplift me. You support me and care for me. Everything I am is because of you. I can only hope to give back as much as you have given me in this crazy life. Thank you for being my guide, my mentor, my champion, and most importantly, my mom. I love you. xoxo —Sky
For Barbara:
Mom,
Thank you for making me the person I am today. You taught me right from wrong, showed me how to treat others, and always reminded me to lead with kindness. Your love, patience, and values have shaped me in ways you may never fully know. I’m proud to be your daughter.
Thank you for setting the standard for motherhood. I don’t take a single sacrifice, lesson, or moment when you put me first for granted. I can only wish to give my children the same some day. I hope you feel celebrated today and always. I love you! —Shelly
Regardless of your relationship with your mom, it’s a good day to remember that you’re the gift she gave the world, and for that, the world—and we—are grateful.
Happy Mother’s Day.
This one page both broke me open and mended me. Thank you <3
Megan, What a beautiful response—thank you. That’s the power of sharing real stories: they crack us open and somehow stitch us back together, too.
Grateful to have you here and in my life. 💛
—Susan
These are beautiful tributes! Each so rich — some painful, others filled with joy. I am moved to tears
Hi Susan, Thank you so much. That’s exactly what we hoped—they’d hold the full range of what it means to love, lose, and remember.
Which one stayed with you the most?
—Susan
I am so moved by this. Thank you PROVOKED, and thank you to everyone who contributed.❤️