Trompler Foundation Archives
 
 

Mulesday

While the sentiments behind Mother's Day and Father's Day may appear to be self-evident, what needs advocacy is the recognition of the achievements of people who have foregone reproduction and thereby curbed their resource consumption and devoted their energies to endeavors unlinked to the furtherance of their own genes.  Such individuals are the genetic equivalent of mules; therefore, Mulesday is observed by honoring those childless citizens who have made non-procreative contributions to society. 

On Mulesday, it is traditional to honor a mule, unrelated to the celebrant, by performing a chore for the mule, such as mowing the lawn, doing laundry, or other household task.  Other Mulesday traditions include gift-giving and a feast in the mule's honor.  Books are traditional gifts, due to their longevity.

In accordance with the pattern established by American observance of Mother's Day and Father's Day, Mulesday is observed on the third Sunday in July, the better to make hay while the sun shines.  Alternately, there is argument for observance of Mulesday on the first Sunday in April, near Easter in honor of the most famous mule of all.

Celebrants may alternately wish to express gratitude to certain non-procreative citizens for not reproducing.  Such individuals may be referred to as "drones," and the holiday as Dronesday.  Alcohol and tobacco are favorite Dronesday gifts due to their propensity to cause impotence and infertility.

Tell me how you observe Mulesday!

Copyright © 2001 by Eric Scharf.  All rights reserved.