Week 81

Positive post Sunday, September 2, 2018- Week 81. 

As a young student in elementary school, other than Christmas and Easter, which I learned about in school and at church, I didn’t really know or appreciate the true meaning of many holidays.  Holidays like Memorial Day, Independence Day, Columbus Day and Labor Day just meant that we got a day off school to play with friends.  As I grew up, I learned more about these holidays and why we were celebrating them.  However, like most things, it wasn’t until later in life and personal experience that I gained a deeper understanding and true appreciation for these holidays.  

Tomorrow, as we do each year on the first Monday in September, we celebrate Labor Day, a day dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers.  It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.  

Although there is much to celebrate on Labor Day, with almost 58 years under my belt now, I celebrate much more than a day off school.  I have a deeper and more meaningful appreciation for this holiday.  As the father of a soldier, and past reserve police officer for over 25 years, I, along with my wife Michele, celebrate the men and women who don’t get a day off work but instead protect and serve us, our communities and our nation 24/7.  Our military and first responders have my deepest respect and appreciation.

I also celebrate employment.  I have been blessed to work for SoCalGas for over 35 years.  Who would have thought that an internship back in the early 1980s would begin a long and fulfilling career spanning over 3 decades.  I continue to appreciate working for a company that values community and customer service and with colleagues who provide clean energy safely and efficiently to over 22 million customers.  With our continued challenges with unemployment and homelessness, I certainly don’t take this for granted.

So when you’re having that barbeque, taking that short vacation or simply enjoying your day off, take a moment to say a prayer for those who serve and protect us, your coworkers and for those members of our communities without work and homes.

Happy Labor Day!