30 April 2004
Media Statement
For immediate use
Focus on the heart of the matter this Mother's Day - Plunket
While it's easy to be distracted by the increasingly commercial focus of Mother's Day (subs Sunday 9 May), the Royal NZ
Plunket Society is encouraging New Zealanders to look beyond all that and focus on the heart of the matter.
"From giving us life to giving us guidance, most mums just keep on giving. Mother's Day on Sunday 9 May presents an
opportunity to give back to the women central to the nurturing and wellbeing of our families/ whanau and communities.
"Whether they are our wives, mothers, or a woman who has acted as 'Mum' to us or our children, giving acknowledgment of
their essential nurturing role is at the heart of Mother's Day. Doing so doesn't have to mean expensive gifts," says
Plunket National President, Kaye Crowther.
"In the 19th Century, Mother's Day was a day dedicated to peace. First observed in 1908, the day was initially described
as a women's friendship day to help women heal the scars of war.
"Perhaps then, as we express our gratitude, and honour mums for their tireless efforts to meet the day-to-day challenges
of family life, we should focus on ensuring mothers can enjoy peace and friendship on Mother's Day.
"In so doing, we should also take the time to remember those mothers working to nurture their families in less than
ideal circumstances, such as those living with illness or in poverty. Extending friendship and support to those women is
perhaps the greatest gift one could offer a woman on Mother's Day," Mrs Crowther concluded.
Ends