Collection of prayers to pay respect to mother and apology words to parents. Welcoming National Mother’s Day with auspicious blessings for a prosperous life, along with correct preparation of offerings, easy to do at home any day throughout the year.
National Mother’s Day, which falls on 12 August each year, is approaching. It is a good opportunity for many children to express gratitude and respect to their parents. According to Thai belief, fathers and mothers are regarded as the "household’s revered saints" and the highest sacred beings for their children.
Paying respect and apologizing for any past offenses—whether physical, verbal, or mental, intentional or accidental—is considered a cleansing of obstacles and blockages in the mind. It is believed that those who regularly care for and apologize to their parents will experience prosperity, smooth operations in their affairs, and safety from harm. Importantly, apologizing to parents is not limited to Mother’s Day or special festivals but can be done anytime and every day to bring auspiciousness to life.
Preparing offerings for paying respect and apology focuses on sincerity and purity rather than luxury or high cost. The recommended items are as follows.
One jasmine garland or a fragrant flower garland.
Incense sticks, candles, and a small flower tray. (If inconvenient to prepare, a jasmine garland alone may be used as a substitute.)
Clean water. Water infused with jasmine flowers or Thai scented water (for washing and wiping feet).
A towel. Clean and new.
A gift. (If available) to express love and gratitude according to each person’s means.
After preparing the items, choose a quiet spot at home. Invite your mother (or father) to sit on a chair. The child kneels in front, focuses the mind, and begins reciting the apology words.
"Namo Tassa Bhagavato Arahato Sammasambuddhassa" (three times).
"Ananta-kuna-sampanna Chaneti Chanaka Upho Maihang Matapitunam Va Pathe Vantami Satharang."
"I, (child's full name), respectfully apologize to my parents, whose kindness is immeasurable. If I have ever wronged you in body, speech, or mind, whether openly or secretly, knowingly or unknowingly, please forgive me from this day forward so that no negative karma remains with me. I also wish for progress and success in my life."
After finishing the recitation, place the garland on mother’s lap, gently wash her feet with the prepared water, dry them with the towel, present the gift, and listen to her blessings. This completes the ceremony.
Paying respect and apologizing to mother is more than a matter of belief and auspiciousness; it is a noble practice that helps strengthen relationships, build understanding, and fill family love. No matter what problems or obstacles children face, the best blessing and protection always come from the love and prayers of their parents.