Some Americans are preparing for the weekend, and their last horrah of summer. Others celebrated last weekend, and they will use the coming three day vaca for tearing down their docks, storing their boats, and the like. Whichever you may be - Labor Day weekend to you most likely involves manual labor, and for that - I salute you.
The U.S. Department of Labor tells us that Labor Day was formed by the creation of the labor movement and is "dedicated to the social and economic achievements of the American workers."
"The vital force of labor added materially to the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world has ever known and has brought us closer to the realization of our traditional ideals of economic and political democracy. It is appropriate, therefore, that the nation pay tribute on Labor Day to the creator of so much of the nation's strength, freedom, and leadership — the American worker."
You can almost hear Lee Greenwood in the background, can't you? An unfurled American flag slowly fades into view, and her stars and strips slowly being to wave. I am getting a little verklempt! ;)
What are your thoughts on Labor Day's origin, and its relevance in today's economic turmoil?
Personally, and perhaps unfairly, find it hard to pay tribute in any way. I love America, or...want to again. It's just that I can't right now - I'm broke.
-Mark
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