Two Canadian newspaper opinion pieces for Mother’s Day, May 10, argue that small, traditional gestures such as flowers, candles, and greeting cards often do not fully reflect what many mothers actually need. Both editorials describe the day-to-day mental load of parenting and caregiving—such as managing appointments, completing forms, and noticing concerns about a child’s well-being even before the child can openly say what is wrong. They suggest that mothers’ efforts and responsibilities extend beyond receiving a thoughtful gift, focusing instead on practical support and recognition of ongoing work. The articles frame Mother’s Day acknowledgements as meaningful but incomplete when they do not address the real tasks and emotional labour mothers handle throughout the year. Overall, the pieces encourage readers to consider more than symbolic gifts and to respond to mothers’ needs in ways that reduce burdens and provide tangible help.