On this day, just say it

There are some holidays that lend themselves to be criticized as the creations of greeting card publishers, florists and candy makers. But today is not one of them.
Oh, to be sure, the people who sell cards, flowers and candy -- not to mention restaurant owners and long-distance phone carriers -- will be richer when the sun sets than when it arose. But that's OK, because at the same time, millions of moms will get a special feeling reading their Mother's Day cards, smelling their roses and hearing the voices of those they love from hundreds and even thousands of miles away.
And even if this day has evolved into a holiday of high commerce, that does not make it commercial per se.
The founder's view
Anna Mary Jarvis, the founder of Mother's Day, probably wouldn't agree. She once became so angry about all the money changing hands that she attacked a charitable organization selling Mother's Day carnations. That kind of purity of heart is commendable, and without her singular devotion to the day, Woodrow Wilson would never have proclaimed this a national holiday.
But that was 89 years ago, and this is now. And it should not be surprising if 21st century children find that one way of telling Mom that they love her is to spend a little money. Who can object, as long as that's not all they do.
Because every son or daughter must know that the biggest bouquet or box of candy or celebratory dinner does not take the place of any variation of these seven simple words: "Happy Mother's Day, Mom. I love you."
So, children of America, observe this day with whatever traditions that have evolved in you family, from badly made breakfasts in bed to extravagant fare at pricey eateries, but don't forget the reason for the day.
Mother's Day provides an opportunity to tell every loving mother that her love is reciprocated.