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I googled it and arrived at the United States Department of Labor website. This is a quote I found to explain what Labor Day means.
"Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is 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."
As a cardiac nurse, I had the opportunity to work with patients who for the most part were typically older. I enjoyed a wonderful relationship working with Dr. Scott Robertson, a cardiologist, for the last ten years of my nursing career. We worked hard but we loved what we were doing! And I have to say ...we made a great team.
I retired for about ten years but continued to 'work' in nonpaying jobs. I worked as a community manager for my husband's technology company. I volunteered to teach children in Bible Study Fellowship for seven years.
When I unexpectedly had to return to full time work I ended up in teaching. For a woman who always wanted children but couldn't have them, it was the perfect place for me to be. There's something very healing being surrounded by preschool children when going through a difficult transition in life.
When I work with my Mini-Mustang class, I'm totally focused on them. It may be hard work especially when I'm constantly having to squat down to their level. But it's good exercise at this point in my life. I have no time to feel sorry for myself, that's for sure.
The bottom line for me is this. I choose to work at whatever I do with all my heart. I'm thankful for the jobs I've been able to do. I'm thankful for the people I've met throughout the years.
I'm reminded of this Scripture:
"Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord and not for people." Colossians 3:23 (NLT)
I hope to encourage you on this Labor Day that what you do counts. Whether you clean homes for a living or take care of children or drive a bus or create art or build companies ...work at it with all your heart as unto the Lord.
So let me ask you a question. How do you view your work on this Labor Day?
Blessings and love,
I always hear about "retirement plans" at my workplace, people concerned about how much they're saving...In reality, in God's Kingdom, there is really no retirement. I believe our active and able God always puts His willing servant to where He wants him/her to be in His time. What life's true purpose you must have gained from both careers! When people say "It's impossible for you to be a teacher from being a nurse, your servant attitude just knows deep in your heart that "Yes! I can!"....By His grace, there is nothing impossible and I know how a blessing you are to those awesome kids and vice versa...Late but "Happy Labor Day!" sister Debby for as Christians, we never stop working for our good Lord. Take care and blessings and prayers.
ReplyDeleteAmen!! You have done well and what an encouragement for us all. Yes, children seem to mend the wounds of the heart, even if they aren't your own biological, God made them to remind us all to enjoy life!!! I am excited for your new year...enjoy!!
ReplyDeleteEvery time I read anything about your story I smile. God has and continues to use you in such specific and wonderful ways to bless others Debbie. Your willing heart I'm sure is pleasing to Him. You quoted one of my favorite passages. I have it written in the cover of my Bibles -- "Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord and not for people." Colossians 3:23 (NLT)
ReplyDeleteI enjoy everything that God has allowed me to do and even those things which had challenging moments I still gleaned from as He moved me ahead. With 50 around the corner literally, I find myself at another great place in what God permits me to do and I'm so thankful.
You're a great encouragement Debbie to me and to many others. Keep it up. Have a great rest of the year and get ready for the excitement that 2016 will bring in God too.
Love you.