Labor Day originated in 1894 to honor and celebrate the contribution of America's labor force to the nation's social and economic achievements.
These days it is mostly regarded as an excuse to celebrate the end of summer. Little attention is given to the original purpose. Yet we really should recognize the American worker as the backbone of our nation.
Americans are now working at jobs for more hours per week with fewer "perks" than most "advanced" nations. More families are two-income families, which means work at home and work on a job create a double burden for men women/men, especially when there are children in the family.
Those of us with that lifestyle are deserving of respect and praise. It isn't easy these days to make ends meet, even with two paychecks. I know a family whose male parent works full time in a job that takes him away from home, often for days at a time, and is actively involved in the work of his church projects. The female parent has two part-time jobs, two children, a house with no housekeeping help, takes an active role in her children's education and in their church life. They are constantly busy, all of them. The children are involved in school activities beyond their classes and homework. The children are also active in community activities. There are many, many families as busy as this.
This lifestyle keeps our country going.. Imagine if people didn't do jobs that keep things going for the country, community; if private citizens didn't volunteer to help provide assistance to others; if children had no guidance and leadership from involved adults.
This is what we commemorate with Labor Day - America's labor force in their jobs, their communities, and their homes.
Celebrate Labor Day this year with appreciation for all those who labor. Do a kindness for someone who has to work this weekend!
For a brief history of Labor Day go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zAAgSRBmMI
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