Labor Day 2009

I know I just wrote and told you I would be away, but I didn't leave yet and won't until Labor Day is behind us. I don't really want to rant about it, but the proclamation of labor Day and all it means these days has me depressed somewhat. In the past, when I was in the labor force as a Teamster, Labor day seemed to mean something. Maybe it's because I'm not working for wages any longer that I don't see the honor in being a working person. But maybe it's the way corporate America has taken the life away from so many, as those high on the food chain of American life use the backs of labor to make their millions.

There is a Labor Day sale at every major chain drive big box store. They are all open for business, with regular hours, and the workers are to be there and not home celebrating their position as labor in our great nation with some relaxing family time and the ceremonious Summers end BBQ. Travel for those that do have the day off and the long weekend see restaurants, motels, lodges, gas stations and gift shops open and staffed to get their money. Maybe those industries seeing the last vestiges of Tourist Season and the raking of profit dwindling after September 7th this year.

In the past, I remember thanking my dad on this day. I remember when I was a dad and my kids relaxing around the house. It was a day we specifically set aside to rest from our labor, our jobs. Stores were closed. Businesses were shut down for the long weekend. We actually took time out from it all on Labor day.

I promise you, I will honor labor. I will mention the working class in my prayers. I'll see the banks are closed, but the ATM's remain open. The Post Office is shut for the day, but you can still use the drop box. The bakeries won't be making and delivering fresh bread to the grocery. The buses will be on holiday schedule, that is, reduced number of runs on a usual Monday. I'll try my best not to shop. I'll take care of all my expected needs for tomorrow, today. Even that pains me somewhat as it is Sunday. I was taught it is the day of rest. Monday, Labor Day, was suppose to be a bonus.

At any rate, none of us would have what we have in any way shape or form without labor. All Labor. And in this day and age that means the part time clerks at numerous stores and shops open through the designated day to honor those same workers. If you do have to use the services of someone that must work today, say this, "Thanks for being here today." They might appreciate it. If you eat out, give an extra couple of percent or more as a tip. Try to get things done today so the folks at the shops can have an easy day tomorrow.

Remember the working class. Use your own definition of who that might be. I know it must vary as to when labor cuts off and management begins. Look at the fast food industry. Get hired as a manager and you have to work all the hours of every shift from time to time to cover the shifts of those that quit and call in, and that means weekends and holidays like Labor Day. In my book, the fast food manager is still labor, with a different moniker, a ploy, no doubt, dreamed up by those who will actually have the day off and profit from the fruits of that labor.


Today's meaning of Labor Day.

If you are working for wages today, I hope your day goes smoothly. I thank you for serving our nations industry and the people with your tax dollars, even if you don't have a say as to where your tax payments go, I still thank you for the portion that serves us with police and fire departments and such.

I will be leaving in a couple of days, headed west again. Stories to come upon my return, hopefully with pictures.

Peace.