Mother’s day holds a lot of meaning for many people in many different countries. While many of those celebrating Mother’s Day are able to celebrate that day with their mother, there are many others whose mother is no longer still alive.

The origin of Mother’s Day can be disputed, but most research shows a woman, Anna Jarvis, who lost her mother in 1905, started it. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson granted Jarvis’ wish to make Mother’s Day a nationally observed holiday, taking place the second Sunday during May.

To those who have lost their mother, this day can sometimes bring back sometimes-unhappy memories. But to many others, this day can remind those of just what their mother did for them.

Mother’s do so much for their children that a lot of times it may go unappreciated or unrecognized. Their work, and love, is unconditional.

Growing up, your mother always wanted you to do your best, whether it is in school, sports, or any other activity you participated in, regardless of the outcome, always giving constant love and support.

In many families, especially Italian families, mothers make sure that you have everything you need to succeed in life. They act like a rock, always giving you someone to lean on in time of need and an ear to listen when you need to talk.

When you lose that rock, your entire world can crumble in an instant, not knowing who to turn to or where to go. You can be confused about many things, depending on the age.

My own mother passed away 12 years ago of gastric cancer. It was something that my father, brother and myself had to deal with quickly. It was not unexpected, but it was something that shook the foundation of our family.

With my father doing his best to raise two teenagers, every day was troubling. Each of us became so reliant on Mom being home that when she wasn’t there, it was shocking.

Each year, the pain of her death got a little easier, as we all grew older and more independent. In no way did the pain subside.

Mother’s day is a way to look back on that gave birth to me, as well as remembering everything she did while still alive.

While she was only 45 years old when she passed away, she is still appreciated and recognized for everything she did.

Paul Simon said it best. “The mother and child reunion is only a motion away.”

Until then, one should look at their mothers passing as a way to grow stronger and know that she will never leave you, regardless of the circumstances.