Jared Lang

The best choice is Mom

Jared Lang | Highlands Today
Published: May 9, 2012

With the 2012 presidential election looming in the distance, opponents Barack Obama and Mitt Romney have already begun their adversarial campaigns we have all become so accustomed to.

The gloves are off and the long series of attacks is only getting started. Amid the political chaos, though, stands a beacon of light, a symbol for truth, justice, and the American way. Faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive, able to leap tall buildings in a single bound. Look up in the sky! It's a bird, it's a plane, no it's ... Mom!

On Sunday, we celebrate Mother's Day. This is a day to thank our matriarchs for all they have done for us. Mothers are the backbone of society. They bring life into the world and bring joy to the many lives on it.

Moms play many roles such as nanny, teacher, or friend, and always put their heart and soul into whatever they do. They are loving, strong and are the holders of invaluable wisdom. Whenever you are struggling, you can — and should — always turn to your mother for guidance and support.

In fact, the United States has been struggling lately and the politicians we have turned to often fail to find the answers. Instead of working together to come up with solutions, they bash each other and seek personal gain.

Politicians are notorious for telling the public what it wants to hear, then conveniently changing their minds for the betterment of their party and other friends.

To the mothers of the world this is nonsense. Moms are brutally honest, but what better kind of honesty is there? They're aware that they may hurt some feelings along the way but moms are still firm in their beliefs and show it with their actions.

The word "mom," though, isn't limited to those biological mothers we all have. Mom is a general term, one of endearment. I have one mother, but many moms.

A mom is an influence on your life. A mom is a caretaker or mentor. Teachers are moms. Grandmas and aunts are moms. Friends' mothers are moms, as well as older brothers and sisters, coaches and even single dads.

We all have a long list of moms and should all strive to be moms to those around us. A mom listens and encourages, yet provides constructive criticism. They do so not to tear down, but to build up. Tough love is sometimes the best love, and no one knows love like a mom.

Sunday should not just be a celebration of mothers, but a reminder of their importance and a day devoted to repaying the debts we all owe. Moms deserve a day for breakfast in bed, flowers and a trip to the spa. Actually, they deserve much more. Moms, however, do not seek repayment, only love. So love your mother and all your moms.

Mother's Day should also be a reminder to follow their example. The spirit of Mother's Day should be celebrated every day of the year, by everyone.

As the election draws closer and TVs are taken over by commercials questioning each candidate's credentials, remember the shining example that all moms are. They gave us life, show us the world, make us smile, and do all this without expecting anything in return. This kind of selfless service is something that politicians should take note of. None of them would stand a chance if Mom was on the ballot.