Yes, Mother’s Day has passed. But that doesn’t mean everyone should go back to the regularly scheduled program. Honoring your wife or the mother of your children should be a lifestyle. Mother’s Day, Birthdays and Holidays are days to give special recognition, but every day is a day to give honor and respect.

It doesn’t take a lot of money or even a lot of time when giving honor has become a lifestyle.

Whether you’re married to the mother of your children or not, understand that this woman gave you a special gift; you already know that. She is the one chosen by God to incubate your baby for nine months. Now that deserves your respect (if you are no longer in a relationship) and your honor (if you are).

It doesn’t take a lot of money or even a lot of time when giving respect and honor has become a lifestyle. How do you make giving honor a lifestyle? Begin here. Let it become a habit that develops into a way a living.

1. Notice the good she does and acknowledge it.
2. Listen as she speaks and appreciate the importance of her words.
3. Especially on holidays, acknowledge her value in a way that is special to her.
4. Give her gifts that you can afford – a card, a single rose, a teddy bear, cook a meal, buy her a hamburger (if your relationship is no longer romantic, keep gifts platonic like something she can enjoy with the kids).
5. Comprehend her inner and outer beauty (again, if your relationship is no longer romantic, simple words of respect and praise for good deeds will do).
6. Let her know how much she means to you and the children through your words and your actions.

At first, it may seem unnatural to you. It may even seem strange to her if she is not used to this type of behavior. However, don’t give up. “That’s just not me” or “It doesn’t feel right” are excuses that can be overcome. Take the time to think of her and celebrate her in a new way.

According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, honor means to regard or treat (someone) with admiration and respect; to give special recognition. It doesn’t mean to go out and spend a lot of money. Nor does it mean to worship a person. It means to give her what she so humbly deserves. Many people miss this opportunity and wish they had done more only after a person is dead and gone. Don’t let this be you.

Your children learn to honor their mother as they observe you. Show them the best example ever. The example you set will stay with them for the rest of their lives. You are showing your son how to treat his mother. As well you are instilling in him how to honor the woman who will someday become the mother of his children. Your daughter is watching too. Not only is she learning how to treat her mom, she is learning how she should be treated as a woman.

And this example should be even more pressing for parents who are no-longer together. You should be able to show your children that even though you and their mother may not have always gotten along, you still have respect for her as their mother year round.

Mothers give tirelessly from a heart of love. Afford them the opportunity to receive as well. If she’s the mother of your children; she deserves your respect and appreciation in your co-parenting journey. If she’s your wife, give her your best; show your kids your best effort and honor the mother of your children as the queen of the castle, the twinkle in your eye, your lover and your friend.

BMWK, do you make showing respect and honor toward the mother of your children a year round thing?