Remembering Mom with Traditions New & Old
Posted: May 08, 2020
As Mother’s Day nears, those of us who have lost mothers, daughters, wives, and grandmothers are often reminded of our loss—not only of our loved ones but of the traditions we celebrated alongside them.
In our grief, it can be hard to see past the loss and focus on what was gained—the times spent together, the lessons and wisdom imparted, and the memories that will live on in her absence.
Mother’s Day was created to honor all mothers, both living and deceased, and to remember the many ways they touch our lives—even when they are no longer with us.
Anna Jarvis, who founded Mother’s Day in 1908, did so in honor of her mother Ann Reeves Jarvis, an activist and Sunday School teacher who once said in one of her lessons: “I hope and pray that someone, sometime, will found a memorial mother’s day commemorating her for the matchless service she renders to humanity in every field of life. She is entitled to it.”
Three years after her mother’s passing, Anna took her words to heart and created this beautiful tradition we still celebrate today.
Celebrating in the Time of Social Distancing
This year’s Mother’s Day presents new challenges to those grieving the loss of a mother in their life. Social distancing makes it difficult to gather with loved ones in person—but there are still ways to stay connected to family, so you can celebrate the day together.
Hold a Virtual Remembrance
Host a remembrance via video conferencing. Invite family and friends to celebrate the day and share their favorite memories of Mom over Syke, Zoom, or another video call platform. If you’re new to video conferencing, read our blog for tips on staying connected with technology.
Visit Cedar Memorial Park and Meet the New Cygnets
If you regularly visit Cedar Memorial Park on Mother’s Day, you can continue your tradition as long as you maintain a safe distance from other visitors and limit gatherings to 10 people or fewer.
Now is an especially beautiful time in the park, when flowers are in bloom and everything is covered in a fresh layer of green. This year will be an extra special Mother’s Day, as our swan family welcomed baby cygnets into the world on May
Honor Her Memory with Flowers
If you would like to leave flowers at your Mother’s final resting place but are unable to place them yourself, the Flower Shop at Cedar Memorial Park is waiving their placement fee and can deliver them respectfully on your behalf. Learn about their Cemetery Placements here.
Bake Your Mom’s Favorite Recipe
Comfort food is the gateway to the soul, and spending an afternoon cooking Mom’s favorite meal or treat can offer time for solitary reflection—or a chance to pass the recipe onto the next generation. Teaching the recipe to someone else also gives you a chance to tell them about your mother, and pass on the same valuable lessons she gave to you.