Happy Mother's Day

In Russia, they don't celebrate Mother's Day today--it's all wrapped into Women's Day in March. But on Mother's Day, I think of our children at Sovietsk, and of their mothers, and of the 4 million children worldwide who are without their mothers, and of their mothers, and of the children of all ages who miss their mothers, and of the mothers around the world who are longing for their children.

I also think of my mother, of the example of grace, wisdom, and courage she has given to me, and I am humbled and grateful to be her daughter. I think of my grandmothers, my great-grandmothers, my mother-in-law, my sisters-in-law, my aunts, my cousins, the grandmothers and foster mothers I work with, the orphanage caregivers, my friends who are mothers--young mothers, experienced mothers, mothers-to-be, and I am thankful for all of the women who give of themselves so that children can grow into strong, loving, and giving adults.

And, I think of the Sovietsk Supporters--some who are mothers of growing children, some with children who are grown, some who are soon-to-be mothers, some who are mothers at heart, some who are individuals with love to give--who give of themselves to nurture hurting children, and who expect nothing in return.

To each and every one of you, thank you for giving your heart. And Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Women's Day!

Women's Day, the 8th of March, is a national holiday in Russia and many other countries throughout the world. Our first two visits to Russia happened to fall during Women's Day, so we were able to experience this great holiday firsthand. Our interpreters explained that it is celebrated similarly to Mother's Day and Valentine's Day. Women usually get flowers and other treats like chocolate and dancing. To wish someone a happy Women's Day, you tell her "Congratulations!"

The holiday started in the United States in 1909 with the Socialist Party of America. But the Soviet Union and the countries in the bloc adopted the day early on in order to celebrate the achievements of women and to encourage gender equality. At first, the 8th of March was heavily politicized but as time passed and women gained ground toward equality, the holiday became simply a day to celebrate and appreciate the women in your life. So, give a woman a hug and tell her how much you appreciate her.

The text on the 1932 poster is: "8th of March is the day of the rebellion of the working women against the kitchen slavery. Say NO to the oppression and Babbittry of the household work!"