Many have written about mothers and their influence on our daily lives. Our mothers are the ones who cherish us unconditionally, support us with enthusiasm, and won't let us rollerblade without wrist guards and a helmet. They tend to our wounds, mend our broken hearts, and take on all the challenges that life throws their way, both physically and emotionally.

Although one day is not enough to appreciate and express the gratitude we have for our mothers, it’s a great opportunity to dedicate a day to our special mothers. But when did it all start and who came up with the idea of a day dedicated to mothers? Let's dive into a bit of the back story about Mother's Day to learn about it’s little-known origin.

The Origin of Mother's Day

The tradition of celebrating Mother's Day began in 1908 with Anna Jarvis, a peace activist who was entrusted to care for wounded soldiers throughout the American Civil War. Anna Jarvis organized a memorial for her mother, and the site today holds the International Mother's Day Shrine. Anna was the first person to try to raise funds to celebrate Mother's Day across the US. Following the loss of her mother, she worked hard to ensure that motherhood was celebrated globally. She wanted to pay tribute to all mothers of the world for their contributions.

In 1912, a number of US states started celebrating Mother's Day. West Virginia, the hometown of Jarvis, was the first to establish Mother's Day as the state holiday. Over time, it was decided that it will be celebrated on the second Sunday in the month of May. The year 1914 was when  Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation in honor of Mother's Day. As time passed, more nations adopted the day to honor mothers. Today, more than 50 countries celebrate Mothers Day.

Why Set a Separate Date to Celebrate Mother's Day?

All over the world, Mother's Day celebrations are held as a sign of respect and a gesture of appreciation and love for mothers for their contributions to building a better world. Although different countries may have different dates for celebrating the holiday, the most popular time is usually May.

Literary Quotes About Motherhood From World-Famous Writers

When we are trying to highlight the many roles mothers and maternal figures play throughout our lives, our words sometimes don't convey our sentiments as profoundly as we mean them to. So, if you have been struggling with the same issue and want to express your love and gratitude to your mom, then fret not! We've selected a few of our favorite Mother's Day quotes penned by famous writers to assist you in expressing your sentiments the right way this Mother's Day.

To mothers we'll never be able to repay, here are 10 of the best literary quotes about motherhood by famous writers.

"God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers”
― David C. Gross, Dictionary of 1000 Jewish Proverbs

“To describe my mother would be to write about a hurricane in its perfect power. Or the climbing, falling colors of a rainbow”

—Maya Angelou, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

“Your mother died to save you. If there is one thing Voldemort cannot understand, it is love. Love as powerful as your mother's for you leaves it's own mark. To have been loved so deeply, even though the person who loved us is gone, will give us some protection forever”

—J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone

"But behind all your stories is your mother's story, for hers is where yours begins"

—Mitch Albom, For One More Day

“I will look after you and I will look after anybody you say needs to be looked after, any way you say. I am here. I brought my whole self to you. I am your mother.”

—Maya Angelou, Mom & Me & Mom

“Because even if the whole world was throwing rocks at you, if you had your mother at your back, you’d be okay. Some deep-rooted part of you would know you were loved. That you deserved to be loved”

―Jojo Moyes, One Plus One

"I am sure that if the mothers of various nations could meet, there would be no more wars." 

—E.M. Forster, Howard's End

"So loving to my mother, That he might not between the winds of heaven, Visit her face' too roughly"

—William Shakespeare

"A mother's love for her child is like nothing else in the world. It knows no law, no pity. It dares all things and crushes down remorselessly all that stands in its path."

— Agatha Christie, Last Séance

“Perhaps it takes courage to raise children."

— John Steinbeck, East of Eden (1952)

Books to Gift Your Moms This Mother's Day

Gift-giving has become a huge part of the holiday, giving your mother a gift is a great way to show your appreciation, and what better than a gripping read which she can cherish? Whether your mom dedicates only a few minutes per week or spends time reading the latest bestseller every day, there are plenty of thoughtful books from our collection to gift mom this Mother's Day.

1. Mom Said, I Said
2. Lost Life
3. The Alpha Woman in Christ
4. My Mom Wears Different Hats
5. Saving Eric
6. My Cries and My Triumphs
7. The Land of Sunshine and Hell: A Memoir of a 60s Unwed Mother
8. Unintended Consequences

We hope you get to share all the love and laughter with your mothers this Mother's Day! Celebrate motherhood in all its glory by enjoying some of our favorite stories with your moms! Also, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and keep yourself updated about all our new releases.