The month of May offers a wide array of holidays, over a 140 if you’re counting. See May Holidays 2021 – National Today or The Month of May 2021: Holidays, Fun Facts, History, and More | The Old Farmer’s Almanac Talk about an emotional roller coaster; and yet, there are at least four notable days to remember:

• First comes May Day, the first of the month, observed in many countries to celebrate the arrival of the season of Spring but also the Russian revolution of 1917 or a day honoring labor and the shorter workday and work week fought four in the late 1800s. Whether celebrated by pagans, communists or union members it is generally a day of celebration and can sometimes involve dancing, drinking, fire-setting and other general mayhem.  Speaking of mayhem which starts with the word “may”, there are a couple of “may” words worth noting this month:
  • Mayday, the international general distress call used for water and air transportation; derived from the French phrase “venez m’aider” meaning “come help me”.  It’s intention is to signal for assistance in life threatening situations. 
  • Mayhem, means violent or damaging disorder as well as the crime of maliciously injuring or maiming someone.  Not a pleasant word for most to hear or experience.
  • Maybe, a word often used by parents or other authorities to suggest that perhaps, there’s a possibility or a mere probability that what is sought might actually be found, that what is desired might actually come about, that what is needed might actually be delivered.
• Then comes Cinco de Mayo, the fifth of May, that celebrates the Mexican army’s victory over the French forces in 1862.  Considered a minor holiday in Mexico, it has become a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage in the United States primarily for Mexican-American people.  This day is often filled listening to Latin music, visiting Mexican food booths and learning more about Mexican history.
• Don’t forget Mother’s Day, celebrated on the second Sunday of the month. Check out the history of Mother’s Day which officially began in 1907 at History of Mother’s Day: How Mother’s Day Came to Be | The Old Farmer’s Almanac and remember this is supposed to be a “day off” for mothers and a day of peace for all.
• Finally, there is Memorial Day, celebrated on May 31 this year, that often involves flag raising in honor of family members who have died while serving in the military and visiting cemeteries to honor family ancestors who have transitioned beyond this life in general.

Between the celebrations and remembrances, this is a month that covers the full spectrum of emotions and the hope of better things to come like Summer and the transition to whatever the next month or next life might bring. 

But let’s not skip to the end of this month or overlook other valuable things worth remembering this time of year. Many of us have important people in our lives celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and other days worth commemorating.

Sincerely, may we all be peaceful, joyful and grateful each and every day of May 2021.