May 10, 2026 marks the 112th annual observance of Mother’s Day, a tradition that began in the United States in the early 19th century; Originally a Protestant observance, it became an official holiday across all U.S. states in 1914. The idea of a national Mother’s Day was championed by Anna Jarvis, who used white carnations as a symbol of the occasion — a tribute to her mother’s love and sacrifice.

Stories of Strength and Sacrifice

Across the globe, mothers are being honored for their resilience and dedication. In baseball, Fernando Cruz credits his mother for keeping him going during a difficult time in his career. After a painful shoulder injury and emotional struggles in the minor leagues, Cruz received support from his mother, who reminded him of his childhood dreams and encouraged him to keep going. “She said, ‘Keep going. I know your heart. Since you were a little kid, it was a big deal for you to play baseball. You have to keep going and trust in the process.’”

In China, President Xi Jinping has often highlighted the role of mothers in shaping national character and spirit. One such example is He Zhihong, a Chinese peacekeeper who died at age 35 in an earthquake while serving in Haiti. She left behind a 4-year-old son and a legacy of cultural exchange and service. He Zhihong is one of many mothers whose stories have inspired national leaders, including Zhao Yiman, a martyr executed by Japanese forces in 1936, and Deng Yufen, a mother who sent her husband and five children to the frontlines during the Japanese invasion.

Celebrating at Home and on Screen

For many families, Mother’s Day is a time to gather and express gratitude. In 2026, several countries, including Mexico, Guatemala, and El Salvador, will celebrate on May 10, while others like the U.S., Chile, and Colombia will observe it on the second Sunday of May. Streaming platforms like Netflix offer a variety of movies perfect for the occasion, including “The Mother,” a 2023 action-drama starring Jennifer Lopez, and “Instant Family,” a comedy-drama about a couple adopting three siblings.

For those looking to send digital greetings, WhatsApp has become a popular platform. From heartfelt messages to shared images and videos, users can easily send messages to their mothers using pre-designed templates or personal photos. Tips for sharing via WhatsApp include saving images directly to a smartphone or using email to transfer them for easy sharing on mobile devices.

A Global Tradition with Local Touch

While the traditions of Mother’s Day vary by country, the underlying theme remains the same — honoring the care, love, and sacrifice of mothers. In Germany, where the holiday is also celebrated on May 10, many people opt for small, thoughtful gestures like homemade cakes or flowers. Meanwhile, in China, the stories of notable mothers continue to shape national identity and values, often cited in speeches and public discourse.

As the world comes together to celebrate, the stories of mothers across sports, politics, and everyday life serve as a reminder of their enduring impact. Whether through a simple message, a movie night, or a heartfelt gesture, Mother’s Day 2026 promises to be a time of gratitude and reflection for millions around the world.