MOTHERS, KINDNESS: THEY JUST GO TOGETHER

Happy Mother's Day.

And happy Random Acts of Kindness Day.

As has become the custom, the Southeast Missourian is pleased to salute our mothers and to call the attention of readers to those remarkable acts of kindness that are committed year-around by our families, friends, neighbors and co-workers.

Look through the newspaper today and you will see various accounts of kindness. Some are simple. Some are quite involved. But every act of kindness, it seems, finds a willing recipient.

The pages of today's Southeast Missourian are filled with news about children who get to spend $1 a week on kindness, about organizations that help teachers, about brightening the lives of cancer patients.

Each and every act represents the generosity, caring and love of our mothers. Today's Southeast Missourian is devoted to random acts of kindness as a special salute to mothers everywhere.

Among the millions of Americans who are paying tribute to their mothers today is President George W. Bush. Here are his remarks honoring America's mothers:

"It is my pleasure to wish every mother a happy Mother's Day. Your role is essential because it encompasses so many responsibilities. At different times -- and sometimes at the same time -- mothers serve as teachers, doctors, friends, coaches, ministers, counselors and financial providers. You're always there with a warm smile, a big hug or an open ear at just the right time. And you usually know when that is even before your kids do.

"When we have loving mothers, we have loving families. And in that love our children learn the values and confidence that will serve them the rest of their lives.

"I know how powerful motherhood can be, because I've seen one of America's best mothers in action for 54 years. Many of you have gotten to know my mother, Barbara Bush, and have become almost as fond of her as I am.

"I've been blessed with the unconditional love and support of two wonderful parents throughout my life. And I've seen my wife, Laura, offer the same love and support to our daughters. I often say that marrying Laura was the best decision I ever made. And by marrying Laura I got one of the best mothers-in-law you'd ever hope to know. Jenna Welch is a blessing to Laura, the girls and me, and we love her with all our hearts.

"To all the sons and daughters, I hope you take some time today and every day to tell your mom how much you love and appreciate her. Mothers provide an awful lot of love and don't ask for very much in return. But an unexpected hug or an extra kind word can go a long way in helping moms feel appreciated.

"So, to all the moms out there, thank you for your love, for your caring, for your kindness and for your patience. We're so lucky to have you."