Nassau Standard

Senator Jack M. Martins is no stranger to a busy schedule. His days are filled with paperwork, policy discussions, and long legislative sessions at the state house in Albany. When he returns home to Long Island, his time is occupied by addressing constituent issues and attending various community functions and meetings.

However, despite the hectic pace of his life and that of his four siblings, their family finds solace in weekly gatherings at their mother's house. This tradition provides them with a much-needed break from their bustling lives. The home-cooked meals and camaraderie are cherished aspects of these gatherings, but the comfort extends beyond that. As Senator Martins puts it, even the "ear-splitting commotion" made by the 18 family members (21 including their dogs) brings him comfort.

At the heart of this familial whirlwind is Senator Martin's mother. Drawing on a sentiment from poet Khalil Gibran, he describes his family home as "not an anchor but a mast," with his mother consistently hoisting it for them all. Her unconditional love serves as a source of strength for him amidst his demanding schedule.

Senator Martins believes that many societal problems could be mitigated by upholding and supporting the role of motherhood. He cites numerous research studies and papers available online that highlight the pivotal role mothers play in societal development.

He argues that family is often our first real unit of belonging where we learn to interact, grow, and develop accountability to others beyond ourselves. Mothers have traditionally been primary shapers of this experience which has been increasingly compromised as family roles become diminished in our fast-paced world.

While Mother's Day is an occasion to celebrate personal love for our mothers, Senator Martins suggests another way to honor them - recognizing their vital contributions to society and committing ourselves to support them wherever they may be. He firmly believes that providing mothers with love and support needed to raise good families can significantly improve our world.

In closing, Senator Martins wishes a Happy Mother's Day to his mother, his wife, and all the mothers reading his column, acknowledging their immeasurable contributions.