Happy Mother's Day

PLUS: My Scripps' "2-Minute Warning" to politicians

Happy Mother’s Day! 

The first official proclamation of this day was made by President Woodrow Wilson in 1914. The world stood on the edge of global war that year, and soon America’s sons would join the battle that would separate many young men — hardly more than boys — from their mothers forever. 

The original Mother’s Day proclamation preceded Wilson’s by 44 years, and was made by Julia Ward Howe, who had penned the “Battle Hymn of the Republic” during the US Civil War. She wrote the proclamation in 1870 as the Franco-Prussian War raged as a preface to the horror of the 20th century. 

It seems appropriate to recall her words on this day, 153 years later, with humanity not yet having lost its appetite for war. 

Arise, then... women of this day!

Arise, all women who have hearts, whether our baptism be that of water or of tears! Say firmly: We will not have great questions decided by irrelevant agencies. Our husbands shall not come to us, reeking with carnage, for caresses and applause. Our sons shall not be taken from us to unlearn all that we have been able to teach them of charity, mercy and patience. We, women of one country, will be too tender of those of another country to allow our sons to be trained to injure theirs.

From the bosom of the devastated earth a voice goes up with our own. It says: Disarm, Disarm! The sword of murder is not the balance of justice. Blood does not wipe out dishonor, nor violence vindicate possession. As men have often forsaken the plough and the anvil at the summons of war, let women now leave all that may be left of home for a great and earnest day of council.

Let them meet first, as women, to bewail and commemorate the dead. Let them then solemnly take council with each other as to the means whereby the great human family can live in peace, each bearing after his own kind the sacred impress, not of Caesar, but of God.

In the name of womanhood and of humanity, I earnestly ask that a general congress of women, without limit of nationality, may be appointed and held at some place deemed most convenient, and at the earliest period consistent with its objects, to promote the alliance of the different nationalities, the amicable settlement of international questions, the great and general interests of peace.

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Maria Shriver’s story about connection between mother and daughter

I recall reading somewhere long ago that the average person will meet 10,000 different people in their lifetime. I think about that often, and how I show up in the world.

I know without a doubt that my friend Maria Shriver is among the most exceptional, gifted, loving, kind and inspiring people I have ever known.

My gratitude for her friendship is immeasurable, and admiration for her work boundless. You can watch Maria Shriver talk about her work as President Biden signs an executive order on Women’s Health Research, and the historic investment made by his administration of over $12 billion dollars that will save countless women’s lives:

Each Sunday, Maria Shriver publishes The Sunday Paper.

I think it is exquisite, and it is almost always the first thing I read on Sunday with a cup of coffee in that small space where everything is still and quiet for a little longer.

For me, it is my paper of record because it helps me center on things that truly matter. I can’t recommend it highly enough. For sure, it will enrich your life and give you important insight and cause for introspection and reflection.

Among the great privileges of my life was getting to sit next to Eunice Shriver at a few dinners. Her life of service, accomplishment and impact was epic. It is sustained through the work and commitment of her children, each of whom honor her legacy with their own acts and dedication.

Here is a story about connection between a mother and a daughter. I hope you enjoy it. I thought it was beautiful.

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My Scripps’ “2-Minute Warning” to politicians

Is South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s political career over? After the Trump VP contender included an anecdote about killing a puppy in her memoir, she faced criticism from the right and the left. Here’s my Scripps’ “2-Minute Warning” to politicians:

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