Our Mission

The Why Mom Deserves a Diamond writing contest has combined people’s talents to create one of the most influential organizations that bring thousands of young students and their families closer together.

Our mission is to allow every child to express their words of appreciation for their mothers, to teach them to become powerful writers, and to prepare them for a lifetime of success by knowing they are loved.

The Founder


In 1993, founder Diamond Mike Watson started a mother’s appreciation contest in honor of his adoptive mother, Martha, and his birth mother who died before he met her. It would also give kids a chance to show their appreciation for their own moms. Watson invited kids to write a letter entitled, Why Mom Deserves a Diamond®. The most creative contestant would receive a diamond.

Out of about 200 entries submitted, a girl named Margaret claimed her grand prize diamond. Like buried treasure, her enchanting poem sparkled deep within the small mound of essays on Watson’s desk.  On Mothers Day, Margaret presented the precious gem to her mother.

The Why Mom Deserves a Diamond® contest serves an important purpose to bring back human connection.  Since 1993, the contest has required a winner to recite his or her essay to mom. 

I am thankful to be a witness in the thousands of unforgettable experiences between kids and their moms. There is nothing that replaces the eye to eye exchange and hugs between two persons.  

I am so thrilled to be a part of this legacy.


Diamond Mike Watson, founder

Martha Watson –  the Inspiration

Born with only the name “infant” on his birth certificate, contest founder Diamond Mike Watson was adopted by Stoy and Martha Watson in New Albany, Indiana. He loved his adoptive parents but was always curious to know of his origins. Twenty years later he found

his birthmother but she had already died.

His adopted parents named him Michael.  Years later he became known as Diamond Mike.

Martha was a compassionate listener, slow to anger, and could brighten the climate of a room with her natural smile.  Martha loved everyone she met.  She will forever be known as the mother who inspired the contest.

Martha Velia Watson.
March 15, 1920 – September 14, 2006. Photo at age 18.