When it comes to Hallmark Holidays, I’ve always been a bit of a curmudgeon. I recognize that puts me in the minority—and I don’t mean to offend—but birthdays, anniversaries, Father’s Day, and the like feel overrated and unnecessary. Why should a greeting-card company, often rooted in pagan tradition, decide whom I should love and when?

 

Mother’s Day is a little different. It’s not that it’s overrated, but more that it’s redundant. Every day should be Mother’s Day.

 

One of our partner/recipient agencies Unpacked, of which I’ve written many times, launched a new division last month, ‘Judaism Unpacked,’ to “spark curiosity and raise Jewish literacy among young Jews.” It provides articles, videos, and podcasts on a variety of Jewish topics. This week’s article focused on Mother’s Day.

 

“Mother’s Day isn’t a Jewish holiday, but the concept of motherhood is fundamental to Judaism. Mothers* are the cornerstone of Jewish identity and tradition, responsible for keeping the Jewish people alive, vibrant, and connected across generations. Jewish tradition emphasizes their strength, leadership, and moral guidance.”

 

*“That role isn’t limited to biological motherhood. Anyone who teaches, nurtures, or helps carry Jewish tradition forward is part of that sacred chain.”

 

The piece ends with a beautiful reminder: “This Mother’s Day, whether you’re honoring a mother, remembering one, becoming one or reflecting on the ways you’ve been nurtured by others, take a moment to celebrate the incredible strength it takes to carry a people—and a story—forward.”