We Love Our Mothers!

Ross Berry
May 9
10 min read

A Special Place in Our Hearts…

‘Karen and Jay share thoughts on the special role of mothers and the importance of honoring their contribution on Mother’s Day as well as all throughout the year.'

It’s that special day of the year – when we take a moment to show our appreciation and everlasting love for those wonderful people who bring us into this world, care for us and never relinquish their role as our number one advocates, cheerleaders and teachers – for all of their living days. We each have our verry personal memories – etched deep within us – of the selfless, devoted and loving care that our mothers have provided. So, on this special day – let’s say ‘Happy Mother’s Day!’ But let’s do even more, let’s celebrate their role – and recognize that they are mothers all year round – and so let’s commit to honor them each and every day of the year, if even in a quiet way.

For my brother and myself our mother, Norma, was always there for us. A quick wit and loving presence – as well as an iron will and a fierce protector. She was a constant presence and a guiding hand. Also, a bit of a character. As we were growing up, I have a vivid memory of her – standing in our kitchen, ironing clothes and listening to her beloved Red Sox on the transistor radio. I’m sure you have fond and beautiful thoughts of your mother as well.

Mothers are truly the backbone of our society, their influence shaping the very fabric of our communities and our future. They play a crucial role in their patience, wisdom, and a gentle, unwavering presence. Importantly, their role is not limited to the home; mothers serve as mentors and moral compasses, instilling in the next generation the principles that uphold our nation’s values and freedoms. Through their example, they teach us that great character is built through compassion and dedication—traits that echo in the fabric of our great American society.

The guiding hand of a mother is also responsible for shaping the character of the leaders who will someday govern our country. A timeless saying, “the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world,” captures this profound truth. It signifies how mothers influence not just their children, but the future of the world itself, through the values and morals they pass down. When mothers teach their children love, respect, and a sense of civic duty, they are laying the foundation for a society rooted in integrity and hope. Their sacrifices ensure that their children grow up equipped to face life’s challenges with confidence, carrying forward the virtues that make our nation great.

In our country today, with our emphasis on freedom, opportunity, and individual responsibility, mothers have an especially vital role. They are responsible for fostering a sense of pride and gratitude for the liberties that we enjoy today. By instilling an appreciation for the opportunities America provides—whether through education, work, or community service—they help nurture a new generation that values and upholds these freedoms. Mothers work tirelessly to ensure that their children understand the significance of liberty and the importance of contributing positively to a society built on shared ideals. It is through their tireless efforts that the next generation will continue to cherish and defend the principles that define our nation.

On this Mother’s Day, and every day, it is essential that we pause to honor these remarkable women whose sacrifices and love have shaped our lives and our future. Let us recognize their extraordinary contributions, not only with words of gratitude but also through acts of appreciation and respect. They are the silent architects of our society, shaping young minds and planting seeds of hope that will grow into a brighter tomorrow. As we celebrate, let us remember that their influence—guided by love, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication—is what truly holds the key to a thriving, compassionate nation.

The History and Heart of Mother’s Day

We celebrate Mother’s Day – but have you ever wondered – where did it come from? What’s the history? Well, as it turns out, Mother’s Day has a rich and inspiring history that spans centuries and cultures. From ancient civilizations to modern times, this special day reflects humanity’s enduring reverence for mothers and their irreplaceable role in our lives.

The origins of Mother’s Day trace back to ancient Greece and Rome, where festivals were held in honor of mother goddesses like Rhea and Cybele. These early traditions celebrated the power of motherhood and its connection to life and fertility. In early Christian Europe, the tradition evolved into “Mothering Sunday,” a day when people returned to their “mother church” and, eventually, visited and honored their own mothers with tokens of love.

The modern concept of Mother’s Day began taking shape in the 19th century United States. One of its pioneers was Anna Jarvis, who sought to create a national day to honor mothers for their sacrifices and compassion. Her motivation stemmed from a desire to promote peace and commemorate the nurturing role mothers played, especially those who had lost sons in the Civil War. Her efforts led to the first official Mother’s Day celebration in 1908.

In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson formally declared the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day in the United States, establishing it as a national holiday dedicated to appreciating mothers. Although the holiday has since become widely commercialized with flowers, cards, and gifts, its essence remains deeply heartfelt—a time to pause and express gratitude.

Today, Mother’s Day is celebrated in countries around the world, each adding its own cultural touch. From breakfasts in bed to family gatherings, handmade cards to heartfelt phone calls, the central theme is universal: honoring the love, strength, and sacrifices of mothers everywhere.

At its core, Mother’s Day is more than a date on the calendar. It’s a powerful reminder of the unconditional love mothers give—whether biological, adoptive, or maternal figures in our lives. It calls us to cherish and uplift the women who shape us with their wisdom, kindness, and enduring support.

As we celebrate this day, may we not only shower our mothers with gifts but also with time, gratitude, and love—the most precious offerings of all.

The Quiet Power of Working Moms

This week, as we prepare to honor mothers across America, it’s worth pausing to recognize a remarkable force shaping our country’s future — working moms.

Not just balancing work and family, but driving prosperity, innovation, and leadership in towns big and small. From high-stakes boardrooms to home-based businesses, from the halls of government to homeschooling around the kitchen table, America’s moms are not just showing up — they’re leading.

Here in New Hampshire, we see this strength firsthand. Take Karoline Leavitt, for example. At just 27, she became the youngest woman in history to serve as White House Press Secretary — all while embracing motherhood. Her presence on the national stage is a signal: young women can lead boldly, serve their country, and raise a family at the same time.

Current New Hampshire Governor and former U.S. Senator Kelly Ayotte offers another inspiring story. After a hard-fought Senate campaign, she turned loss into fuel, raising her children while remaining an active public voice. Her daughter has often been by her side on the trail — a testament to motherhood not slowing ambition but sharpening it.

Commissioner Janet Stevens has juggled a demanding public role with raising a family, championing healthcare access and education across the Granite State — proving again that working mothers often have the clearest vision for community wellbeing.

Of course, we also salute the everyday leaders — the countless women running small businesses on Main Street, organizing town events, or launching local nonprofits — all while getting the kids off to school or teaching them at home. Particularly in rural and small-town America, the rise of homeschooling has placed even more responsibility on mothers' shoulders, yet so many rise to the challenge with grit and grace.

Nationally, women like Indra Nooyi, former CEO of PepsiCo and mother of two, have spoken candidly about the challenges of balancing leadership and motherhood. Their stories mirror the same resilience seen in our neighborhoods — the startup founder working after bedtime stories, the café owner adjusting shifts to pick up her kids from soccer.

To all the moms building businesses, shaping policy, educating the next generation, and keeping the lights on — we see you. You are not only holding up your families — you’re holding up America.

Celebrating Adoptive Mothers

When we think of Mother's Day, we often picture the familiar: a mom who raised us from birth, whose voice we heard first, who knew us before anyone else did. But motherhood doesn't always follow that of the traditional one. Across the country, thousands of women have stepped into the role of mother through adoption—with all the love, commitment, and sacrifice that the title of 'Mother' carries.

Each year, approximately 115,000 children are adopted in the United States, with a significant portion coming through foster care and private domestic adoption. Behind every one of these stories is a woman who chose to say ‘yes.’. ‘Yes’ to raising a child who needed a home. ‘Yes’ to navigating a system filled with emotional and legal complexities. ‘Yes’ to the challenges of bonding, nurturing, and showing up for someone who may have already experienced unfathomable loss. These selfless actions deserve our deepest respect and appreciation.

Adoptive mothers represent a quiet strength in our communities. They take on a role that is equal parts heart and grit. Many go through rigorous screening, home studies, and long waiting periods (sometimes waiting years) before ever holding their child. Yet despite the obstacles, they show up with open arms and open hearts. Some adopt domestically, others internationally. Some adopt infants, others bring in teenagers. While every path is different and tells its own special story, the love is just as real.

It’s also important to recognize the growing network of support that now surrounds adoptive families. Organizations across the country provide education, counseling, and post-placement resources to ensure that both the child and the parents are equipped for the journey ahead. Now, thanks to advocacy and awareness, the conversation around adoption has become more open, honest, and inclusive.

On a day like Mother's Day, it's worth pausing to celebrate the women who became mothers by courageous choice. Their role may not be traditional, but it is just as foundational. The bond between a mother and child isn't defined by biology—it's built on consistency, love, and presence.

For every adoptive mom reading this: thank you. Thank you for saying ‘yes,’ for selflessly choosing love, and for building a family with intention. Your impact is felt in your home, your community, and in the lives your children will go on to shape. This Mother’s Day, we honor you, and the incredible impact you've had on so many people throughout our communities.

Moms in Action

One single moment can alter the course of a mother’s life—and, remarkably, the lives of so many others. Often, it begins with a crisis: a premature birth, a health scare, or a tragedy that shakes a family to its core. But for some mothers, that moment becomes a mission. Fueled by love and the desire to protect and uplift, they create nonprofits, launch advocacy campaigns, and dedicate their lives to making things better—for their children, and for yours.

This Mother’s Day, we honor those mothers whose courage has sparked change and built communities of support and hope.

My friend Carrie Perry is one such mother. When her son, Elliot Perry, was born prematurely, Carrie found herself plunged into the frightening world of neonatal intensive care. In that moment of fear, she discovered her purpose: to make sure no family faced that journey alone. Today Carrie is President of the Elliot Perry Foundation, an organization committed to advancing medical care for premature babies and supporting NICU families. Through awareness campaigns, fundraising events, and hospital partnerships, her work has touched the lives of countless families. Her advocacy is rooted in one deeply personal experience, but its impact is broad, powerful, and ongoing. Carrie is also the founder of the Premie Advocacy Network, a nationwide movement that brings premie families together to advance their voices to ensure all kiddos get the care and access to medical treatment they need. It's such a powerful thing

Carrie’s story echoes that of Maya Thompson, who turned the heartbreak of losing her son Ronan to cancer into the Ronald Thompson Foundation, raising millions for pediatric cancer research and support. It also parallels the mission of Kristin Chenoweth, who was adopted at birth and, as an adult, recognized the role the arts played in shaping her life. Deeply grateful for the opportunities she had, Kristin created a foundation to support arts education for underserved youth—opening doors for children who might never have discovered their creative voice.

These mothers didn’t set out to become advocates. But when life demanded more of them, they answered. They remind us that one moment one child, one story can spark a movement.

So, this Mother’s Day, we celebrate not just motherhood, but the strength, resilience, and compassion that moms bring into the world. Especially those who turn their most difficult days into lifelines for others.

Because moms are true and tested. They are the first to stand up—for their kids, for other people’s kids, and for what’s right. When the world gets tough, mothers rise tougher. And in their love, we find protection, purpose, and hope.

Positive Profile of the Week: J.K. Rowling

From Rock Bottom to Global Magic: The Mother Who Wrote Herself a New Future

This week we are delighted to highlight a truly inspirational mother, J.K. Rowling.

Before she was the creator of Harry Potter, before her name became synonymous with imagination and magic, J.K. Rowling was simply a mother trying to survive.

In the early 1990s, Rowling found herself in one of life’s darkest corners: recently divorced, living on welfare in Edinburgh, and battling depression. She was a single mother with a newborn daughter, facing a future clouded with uncertainty. The weight of hopelessness pressed heavily—but so did a story. An idea that had taken root on a delayed train years before, one that wouldn’t leave her alone: a boy wizard, a magical world, a new beginning.

With no money and no prospects, Rowling turned to what she had: nap time. While her infant daughter slept beside her in cafes—chosen because they were warmer than her flat—Rowling wrote. Line by line, she built Hogwarts, conjured friendships, and cast spells not just for readers, but for herself. Her first manuscript was rejected a dozen times. But she kept going.

Then came the breakthrough. One small publisher took a chance on a manuscript scribbled in longhand. What followed is the stuff of legends: over 500 million books sold, films, theme parks, and a generation forever shaped by her stories. Rowling went from poverty to becoming the first author to earn a billion dollars. But more importantly, she never forgot her roots.

Her journey—one of grit, love, and perseverance—is a tribute to what’s possible when a mother refuses to give up. Today, she’s not only a literary icon but a philanthropist who has given away hundreds of millions to causes ranging from children's welfare to mental health.

J.K. Rowling’s story reminds us: the measure of potential isn't where you start—it's how fiercely you believe in what could be. In honoring mothers this week, we celebrate those like her—who, in the quiet hours, build worlds their children will one day grow up to thrive in.