So mothers must model the faith they want their children to follow. How can we encourage them in their hard, relentless, demanding job? How can we help our mothers with the tremendous pressure they feel every day? Here are Dr. Schwall's very practical suggestions for making every day Mother's Day:

Do things to help her; pick up after yourself; do your chores, and hers as well.

Give her time to rest; allow her to be alone. Be proactive in finding her time to get away, to rest, to relax.

Show your gratitude; applaud her verbally (and maybe even literally); tell her you notice all she does. Give her flowers "just because"; show affection; throw a party for her (and don't let her clean up).

So listen when she speaks; have a good attitude; follow her directions; speak and act respectfully. Understand that she is on your side, and that she's your best friend in the world. And you'll make every day into Mother's Day, which is the way it should be.

The most important work you and I can ever do is the molding of other lives. You've never met a mortal. Your children and friends and associates will be alive long after this planet is gone. If you're a mother, renew your commitment to the spiritual influence you are called to give your children. If you're not, make this your day to do the same for those you influence. And as a mother's child, use this day to thank God and your mother for their eternal influence on your soul.

I read this week the story of Joseph Rosenbaum, a 19-year-old Jewish concentration camp prisoner. He was marked to die, when his mother stepped in line and took his place. Though it was many years ago, he says he will never forget her last words to him: "I have lived long enough. You have to survive because you are so young." Every mother here would do the same thing. Rosenbaum comments: "Most kids are born only once. I was given birth twice--by the same mother."

If you can say the same spiritually, you are blessed indeed.