Forgive Mom and Dad Day is observed on March 18 in many parts of the U.S. Every parent has made a mistake or has argued with their child. Our parents are only human and are prone to making mistakes. But let us not forget that as children, we made a lot of mistakes too. Our parents forgave us plenty of times too. Now, it is time we forgive them. Letting our parents know that we do not hold them accountable for past mistakes will surely make their day!
History of Forgive Mom and Dad Day
There is no historical proof as to when this day was first observed. What we know is that Forgive Mom and Dad Day was created by Ruth and Thomas Roy, the founders of Wellcat.com. They came up with a list of random holidays with the motto of celebrating life and its quirky moments. The official website states, “It’s time to let Mom and Dad down off the wedding cake and into the world of mere humans.”
This day is a reminder that although our parents failed at times, they did their best to support us. We all have had rough days with our mom or dad where we might have said mean things to each other. Most times, we do not mean those hurtful words. There is no point holding a prolonged grudge against them. Unless your parents were intentionally cruel or abusive, it is better to forgive them for their faults.
Parenting is a difficult job that requires immense patience and effort. Parenting does not come with a guidebook. There are times when our parents mean well but are not able to channel their love in the right manner. In such a scenario, the best we can do is to accept them for who they are and let go of any resentment that we might have felt towards them.
Instead of suppressing your anger or sadness, you can start a healthy conversation with your parents and let your feelings out. Discussing problems can help you and the other person identify and understand them. Accepting your emotions is good for your mental health. So, maybe give your parents another chance! What do you say?
Forgive Mom and Dad Day timeline
The Old Testament written in Hebrew recounts the earliest instances of the act of forgiveness between people.
The townspeople of Oregon, in a remarkable act of generosity, forgive a Japanese soldier who bombed the town during World War II.
Stephen Owens decides to forgive his mother who murdered her husband, Stephen’s father, ending 13 years of resentment towards her.
A survivor of child abuse, Pascale Kavanagh, sets an example by not only forgiving her abusive mother but also taking care of her after she suffers a massive stroke.
Forgive Mom and Dad Day related content
Forgive Mom and Dad Day FAQs
How do I forgive an absent parent?
Before you forgive your parent, it is important to acknowledge how you feel about them. Embrace the hurt, anger, bitterness, or grief that their absence made you feel. You might also experience abandonment issues. By forgiving them, you can let out all the pain that was residing in your heart.
How do I start talking to my parents again?
It is difficult to have a face-to-face conversation with your parents, especially if you have not been talking to them for a long time. If that is the case, you can write them a letter, send them a gift, or leave a simple text.
My parents shared a toxic relationship and it affected me as a child. Is it okay to forgive them now?
Yes, it is. When you forgive, you do not necessarily have to forget the wrong that has been done to you. At times, forgiveness means to set yourself free of the long-term pain that you have been holding in your heart. Dwelling on your parents’ past mistakes is only going to prolong the discomfort and anger.
How to Observe Forgive Mom and Dad Day
Forgive your parents
As the name suggests, this is a day to reconcile with your parents if you are not on talking terms or have disagreed. The first step to do this is forgiveness.
Talk it out
The best way to resolve arguments with parents is to discuss them. Listening to their side helps you understand the situation and come to terms with it.
Write a note of forgiveness
If you are finding it hard to talk face-to-face with your parents, you can write a letter about how you feel. You can either read it to them or give it to them to read alone.
5 Interesting Facts About Forgiveness
Forgiving is not forgetting
Forgiving does not mean forgetting, it is about acknowledging that something wrong happened and should not happen again.
Beware of the ‘Doormat Effect’
The ‘Doormat Effect’ refers to unconditional forgiving, without taking into account the negative consequences it can have on us.
No apology
Sometimes you have to forgive without expecting an apology.
A healthy trait
Research says that forgiveness promotes a sense of well-being by reducing anxiety, stress, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
Emotional regulation
Forgiveness makes you aware of the hurt, grief, or anger you might be feeling.
Why Forgive Mom and Dad Day is Important
An act of empowerment
Forgiveness means to let go of the hurt or grief that someone caused you. The act of letting go empowers us psychologically and emotionally.
Opening up
This day brings us the opportunity to open up to our parents and tell them about childhood experiences that have affected us. This allows them to understand your feelings.
Bridging gaps
By forgiving your parents for their past mistakes, you recognize their flaws. This allows you to rebuild your relationship with them.
Forgive Mom and Dad Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | March 18 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | March 18 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | March 18 | Thursday |
| 2028 | March 18 | Saturday |
| 2029 | March 18 | Sunday |
Log In With Google