Hi Mom!

You have seen it -- the star athlete stands next to the reporter on the field after the big game; the camera rolls, and the player leans into the microphone to utter those famous words, "Hi, Mom!" Over the years, the phrase, "Hi, Mom!" has become synonymous with those sports figures that have made it into the big time, especially in football.

Perhaps the tradition started when Hall of Fame inductee, Detroit Lions tight end, Charlie Sanders paid tribute to his mother with the words, "Hi, Mom." The phrase was especially moving since his mother had died when he was two years old. He felt it was fitting he recognize his mom, especially as he achieved the highest recognition a pro football player could receive.

Wounded soldiers have been known to ask for their moms. Criminals facing execution have asked for their mother's forgiveness. Little boys seek their mom's comfort when they get hurt. There is a special place in a mom's heart for her son, which is mirrored in the heart of her son.

In a few days we will observe Mother's Day, when we celebrate and honor the important roles mothers play in our society. Anna Jarvis of West Virginia started the holiday in 1908 to pay tribute to mothers, but it wasn't until 1914 that President Woodrow Wilson made the holiday official by signing it into law.

Men, it is not too early to purchase a gift that expresses the love you have for your mom. It is also fitting you remember your wife's mom (always a good move) and your wife as well. Some would argue husbands don't need to remember their wives. After all, it is Mother's Day, and she is not your mother. Instead, it is reckoned that you should pay her the homage of being the mother of your children. The role of motherhood is no small thing.

Here's a simple suggestion I'm sure the lion's share of guys reading this already know: call your mom on Mother's Day; visiting her is even better. Let her know you love her. Let her know you care. Moms appreciate it when their sons make time just for them.

Perhaps you can still remember those immortal words spoken by your mother as you left for college or some other significant event in your life, "Call me!"

You'll be glad you did.