Since 1914, Mother's Day has been celebrated as a national holiday. On the second Sunday of May, children of all ages honor the parent who by tradition has raised them, and they pay homage to the strength and integrity of the American family, as well. However, because they express their appreciation by giving gifts and sending flowers and greeting cards, Mother's Day has also evolved into a commercial entity.

The roots of the holiday are based on love and respect for motherhood rather than on commercial exploitation. They may be traced to Anna Jarvis (1864–1948), a West Virginian who wished to perpetuate the memory of her own mother while honoring the contributions of all mothers. The intention of Jarvis—who, ironically, was neither wife nor parent herself—was to establish a day of reverence for mothers, to be celebrated across the country. The initial...