Reflect on value of Labor Day

Labor Day traditionally marks the end of the summer. It’s a good day to reflect on the value and dignity of work, no matter what kind of job a person performs, and remember and appreciate all those people doing the sometimes “invisible” jobs that make life easier, safer and enjoyable for all of us.

Think of all the things in your day. How about the people picking up the garbage or recycling before you left home this morning? How about the person in the back who actually makes the doughnuts, bagels, coffee or burgers as you go through the drive-up? The person dry cleaning your clothes? The mail sorters at the post office? The crew cutting your lawn while you’re at work?

All the truck drivers, deliverers and stockers who worked through the night to fill up the shelves (again) of the places that you shop in? The office workers at the reception desk, or making the copies, or the ones who were there all night maintaining and cleaning the place you work in? The guy actually under your car at the repair shop or putting on your tires?

All the assemblers, machine operators and packers making the stuff you buy and shipping it to you from that online order? The staff on duty all night at the emergency room you never hope to meet, or the lab techs doing the blood tests? The police, firefighters and EMTs on duty 24/7?

The list goes on and on. All of these people, all of these jobs, this labor, contribute to our lives. “They” are part of “us.” We’re all working hard, trying to make a living, support our families, do our best. Let’s sit back, take a rest, and remember and give everyone their due on Monday.

Kent Schielke

Naperville