Today is Labor Day in the USA. Ironically, it is a day when many of us have the day off from work and the kids are out of school. According to Wikipedia, Labor Day began as "a street parade to exhibit to the public ‘the strength and esprit de
corps of the trade and labor organizations,’ followed by a festival for
the workers and their families."
Let’s take the occasion, however, to look at the very nature of our labor and its meaning. The concept of work is vitally misunderstood in many corners of the economy and culture.
For those of us who view work as an expression of one’s calling and difference making, work conjures positive feelings and robust expression of who we are. For many others the concept of work elicits harsh bondage and dependence on the whim of their boss. Still, there are some who would wash away all work and settle for a life of recreation and parties. So what view of work works?