Be sure to celebrate blessing of motherhood

Mother's Day offers everyone a chance to celebrate mothers. Whether one is a mother or not is irrelevant. The fact that you exist means that you made someone a mother.

Loving, effective, committed mothers have never been more needed, especially in our beleaguered communities with the myriad challenges they face in our contemporary world. It is primarily through the reflected gaze of an adoring mother that one develops a wholesome self-esteem and the feeling that one is beautiful. Such a nourishing attachment is not only crucial but paramount for a fulfilling life.

I was fortunate to have had a mother who was as optimal as one could imagine. Some people may not have known their mothers; others may have had mothers who too often behaved in ways that were less than optimal. Such lamentable situations are not only unfortunate but perhaps even cruel.

Regardless, whenever possible, please consider making Mother's Day special for your mother by honoring her with your individual attention. For one day, focus on her. Look at her and keep it human. Minimize using electronic forms of communication if you can.

Doing so will pay dividends in ways you may not imagine.

The concept of motherhood - and the possibilities that the life we have been given offers us - should be revered.

The dying Beethoven's last reported words as his publisher brought him 12 bottles of wine were, "Pity, pity-too late."

Life is ephemeral. Don't miss your chance to show your mother that you love her. Find a way to value, celebrate, and embrace motherhood.

Happy Mother's Day.

Leon J. Hoffman

Chicago