13) Reading 2
Read the passage and answer the questions below:
The concept of Motherโs Day is neither new nor modern. Actually, as far back as the ancient Egyptians, a day was chosen to honor the mother of the pharaohs. In addition, the Romans and the early Christians also honored mothers; eventually Christians in England named this holiday โMothering Sunday.โ
In America, Motherโs Day eventually arose out of the US Civil War. In 1908 Anna M. Jarvis wanted to honor her peace-loving mother by having a Motherโs Day celebration in her local West Virginian church. So, every mother at the church received two carnation flowers. These were Annaโs dead motherโs favorite flowers. To this day carnations are flowers associated with Motherโs Day in the US. In 1914, Motherโs Day was made an official national celebration for the second Sunday in May every year. Nowadays New Zealand, Australia, Canada and Ireland celebrate Motherโs Day on the same day as the Americans. In all of these countries, sons and daughters traditionally give their mothers cards, flowers or other gifts.
However, you would be wrong if you believed that Motherโs Day was only celebrated in English speaking countries. For example, in China Motherโs Day is celebrated as part of their cultural respect for their elders, including their parents. Poor mothers are given support during this celebration and successful mothers are recognized
Motherโs Day also exists in India and has become at least as commercialized as it is in the US. For example, companies release new products on Motherโs Day and restaurants try to attract extra customers on Motherโs Day โ as well as the usual giving and receiving of cards and flowers. In Mexico children also give their mothers flowers and handmade cards on the day called Dia de las Madres (Motherโs Day). Schools give performances to honor mothers as part of this day of national celebration (May 10th).
Wherever you go in the world mothers are respected. In fact, the US President, George Washington, said โMy mother was the most beautiful woman I ever saw. All I am I owe to my mother. I attribute all my success in life to the moral, intellectual and physical education I received from her.โ This is a convincing argument for the importance of Motherโs Day.
In which year did the U.S. Congress assign the second Sunday in May as Motherโs Day?