I had never given much thought to the meaning or purpose of "Mother's Day" or "Father's Day." I know many refer to them as "Hallmark Holidays," a way to sell more cards. I certainly can understand this. Not having a husband to help celebrate for and with my kids on Father's Day is a bit perplexing. What do they do? What do they do on that school day when everyone is making their Father's Day gifts? No doubt they fear the stares, the questions, the "poor you" looks. I am much more sensitive now to these holidays. Why can't they just be "Special Friends" Day or "Those That Influenced Us" Day.
My wondering led to a simple question - What is the history of Mother's and Father's Day. It seems pretty clear in fact - why perhaps being well intended by some person back in time, it was overtaken by advertisers and retailers to sell more goods! The Hallmark Holiday really isn't such a myth after all.
Certainly "special friends" day might not sell as many gifts as it might not be that personal after all.
Certainly in today's world with all sorts of people that are a "father" or a "mother" to a child, it seems a shame that children in those situations, mine included, don't have an opportunity to celebrate those people on these days as well.
Now if I can just get Hallmark on board.
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