The second Sunday of May is when New Zealand traditionally celebrates Mother’s Day. Its modern-day origins come from an American celebration created by Anna Jarvis in 1908 that became an official U.S. holiday in 1914. Interestingly, Jarvis would later denounce the holiday’s commercialisation and spent the latter part of her life trying to remove it from the calendar.
Historically though, our Mother’s Day has its origins in Christianity. It was once a major tradition in the United Kingdom and parts of Europe, falling on the fourth Sunday in Lent and was originally seen as a time when the faithful would return to their “mother church”—the main church in the vicinity of their home—for a special service.
It goes to show then, that with the passing of time, so traditions and holidays, days of celebration and remembrance can be altered to reflect the popularity and whims of the day.
Gatherings, whether they be big or small are representative of a common belief or ideology. From Sunday church services, political rally’s, education seminars, they all represent an inherent human desire to gather with like minded individuals to concur or discuss beliefs and ideologies encouraging behaviours that I believe allow us to grow as individuals and enrich the lives of both ourselves and others.
Some countries are intolerant to gatherings of any kind, you only have to be familiar with television documentaries to be aware of the risks some citizens endure to ensure they are able to congregate and discuss ideas freely and without fear of incarceration.
New Zealand, has entered a period of re-examination since the attack on the Christchurch Mosques and has already banned assault style semi-automatic weapons.
Andrew Little has just last week announced he would be fast tracking a review on hate speech laws, causing ‘nerves’ in amongst media leaders who believe that robust discussion on all topics are a true definition of democracy, which denotes freedom of speech. elocal is a firm believer in the democratic process and welcomes contributions for publication from all sides of the argument.
If New Zealand was to ever go down the path where such debate was curtailed, it would be a travesty. I would encourage you all to air your views, If you would like to view your concerns, or opinions, please get in touch. Email me at editorial@elocal.co.nz
Back to Mother’s Day, and I hope you all touch base this month with that member of your family who represents the glue, the guidance, good memories and generosity. Mums don’t have to be the one who gave birth to you. They just have to mean the world to you.