I wanted to ask a question about Mother's Day instead of posting about Mothers. I thought it wouldn't be cool to get off topic so I omitted this idea. So here it comes. When I was a child in the 1940's and 50's, I don't remember a major observance of Mother's Day. I knew about Mother's Day but we did nothing about it. I think we made cards in school for our mothers but that's all. So am I right that we put much more stress on Mother's Day today?
Now some comments in my previous post require some response. Some people commented that I am nice (thanks) and my mothers have been an influence. This is very true. My mother worked under extenuating circumstances to get some sense into our heads. I must admit that it took a long time for my mother's influence to emerge in my life. I was a little square peg. I didn't fit well. Sometimes I was very frustrated. The world of the 40's and 50's was very black and white. I didn't see a black and white world. I envisioned a society where all worked together. Again , frustration was added to my life.
I was rebellious , but I hope not in an offensive way. When I finished I high school I left home. I still didn't like to see extreme views that excluded others but I didn't know what to do about it..
It wasn't until my 40's that I got things together and realized that the square peg could lead a very satisfactory and successful life without bending to the extremes. My life changed.
In teaching, there were many little people with tears and the least I could do would be to not offend any more. So showing some empathy to those hurting got lots of practice. I learned that you couldn't ignore those who need comfort and support. Empathizing and supporting people carried over to my adult life. Personal growth took place. I was rewarded with the satisfaction of helping others. I was open to listening to people in a nonjudgmental way.
So I learned things from my Mom but it took a long time to sink in and practise in my daily life.
