Bill Clinton

“ There is nothing more precious than the bond between a mother and her child. With unconditional love and infinite patience, our mothers nurture us throughout our lives, helping us to meet life's challenges and achieve our dreams. Mothers-whether biological or adoptive, foster or stepmothers-are the cornerstones of our families, and our families are the foundation of our Nation. Mothers are the bridges that link America's best promise to its brightest reality. ”

“ For 85 years, we have reserved the second Sunday in May as a special day to honor our mothers for their strength, nobility, and generosity. In so many ways, we owe our successes-and those of our Nation-to the loving influence of our mothers. Although we can never repay them for their gift of life and love, we can honor them in person or cherish their beloved memory. ”

“ The role of women has changed dramatically in the last half-century, bringing exciting new opportunities as well as fresh challenges. Today, our mothers can be mayors and managers, heads of households and homemakers-yet they still make us the center of their lives and the focus of their love. Regardless of whether they work inside or outside the home, we still turn to our mothers when we need reassurance, advice, or comfort. Devotion and love, loyalty and selflessness-these are the traits that define motherhood. ”