Can we ever honor our mothers enough, when we think about the daily gifts of time and energy for our care? Quite simple there is only one way to make a return, and that is to turn our attention to loving and nurturing the next generation; our children, grandchildren.

If we don't have progeny there are plenty of opportunities in community service, or even worldwide service. This brings me to the example set by one of my relatives recently who spent her five-week vacation from work serving in an orphanage in Tanzania.

What really touched me is that before she came home she bought all thirty of the children a pair of sturdy shoes. Now, that nurturing is paying homage to the universal mother we all descend from, and I think is an example for us all.

Giving, giving, giving is really getting, getting, getting. "Ask and you shall receive" reminds me that it is in the very act of giving love we receive a welling-up of peace in our mind and feelings of harmony in our life. The reward of joy is instantaneous.

To align oneself with the attitude of giving and receiving harmony at once it is helpful to carry out a daily practice such as meditation, that nurtures and uncovers this charitable well-spring within.

Meditation is a prime practice because it harmonizes mind and body. The regular breathing calms the mind and relaxes the body allowing us to forget the body for the time being and concentrate on thoughts of appreciation and care, as a mother would for a child.

In photos of mother and baby we see the serenity of mother when looking down at the bundle in her arms. It is just this calmness carried generation to generation that pays homage to the caring mother in all of us. The universal mother is the image of this care and the beautiful teaching of getting love from within while giving love in our heart and actions.

Mother's Day Prayer
Mother dearest, Mother Divine
Awaken love in my heart today.
Keep me remembering your caring ways
This I pray on Mother's Day.

Article by Susan Helene Kramer

For offline reading

Meditation Lessons for Adults
More than 70 offerings, from guided meditation techniques to on-the-go stress relief and relationship meditations interspersed with verse, and a section of special occasion prayers. 114 pages.

Meditation for all Kids
Sitting, walking, dance and group circle meditations, along with positive affirmations, verses and benefits of meditation for kids of all ages and abilities in a 100 page book with illustrations.

I invite you to join me in a world-wide cyber meditation every day of the year.