On mothers

Mothers are mothers whether they are ancient or modern, although their roles do vary with the changing times (Open Page, May 8). Their priority is their children and the intrinsic motherly care is the same across the world.

I would like to remember my paternal grandmother who had 16 children. Only seven survived. She ensured that they had the best education even though the family faced difficult times. All of them were inculcated with sterling moral values, had a positive outlook, were content and had a great sense of humour. We, grandchildren, have inherited most of these qualities. A mother can impart these qualities to her children, which no outside education can provide. This unique and solid bond should make us remember our mothers not merely on Mother's Day but everyday as long as we live.

Kala Chary,

Gurgaon

***

The article “Not just my mother…my teacher too” was heart-warming. Universally, the mother is the shock absorber of all conflicting emotions that arise among family members. She provides the solution as well. This trait is unique to only her. As Cardinal Gaspard Mermillod (1824-1892) said: “A mother is she who can take the place of all others but whose place no one else can take.” Youngsters must try to understand such virtues to make Mother's Day more meaningful. Merely handing over surprise gifts on the day have no meaning.

Janaki Srinivasa Raghavan,

Chennai

***

The travails of a mother never end. But she makes the best management guru. Organisational skills, time-management, being economical, crisis management … everything is tackled eventually. Most great people owe their success to their dear mothers who have played a huge role in sculpting their attitudes. With the modern generation prone to exaggeration and hankering after superficial luxuries, mothers are the best teachers who can instil the golden values of living a simple and a comfortable life.

R. Ananda Krishna Kumar,

Coimbatore