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anniversary of her mother's death the second Sunday of May. She then embarked on a campaign to make Mother's Day nationally observed. Though she succeeded in 1914, several years later, she became so embittered by the commercialisation of Mother's Day that she spent her inheritance campaigning against it and reportedly, died in poverty.

It is fair to say that the Mother's Day celebrated in many parts of the world today, is a relatively new concept, copied from western practices. However, across practically all cultures, mothers have always been held in high regard. In Islamic oral tradition, for example, Prophet Muhammad once said that heaven lies under the feet of our mothers', reminding us all to always respect and care for them. Naturally seen as nurturing beings, mothers are celebrated in many agrarian societies in connection with fertility, fecundity and nature's bounty. In some tribal communities, mothers are believed to have protective powers, as they are able to survive childbirth and naturally heal themselves afterwards. Some traditions regard mothers as preservers of culture, because they give birth to the next generation.

Today, mothers across the globe continue to face numerous challenges. Some continue to fight for equal opportunity and rights in matters such as education, employment and health. Some say that the modern woman's identity is no longer based upon just family and child-bearing, and that women's lives should now encompass meaningful careers and financial success. There is also the reality that many women juggle work and motherhood, due to financial constraints and the rising costs of living. Others are willing to give up their high-flying careers in order to fully dedicate themselves to their family. Mothers everywhere are making endless sacrifices for the people they care about. So, while Mother's Day may have become heavily commercialised, it shouldn't stop us from savouring its essence, which is to celebrate, honour and give thanks to all mothers, wherever they may be.

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