In honor of Labor Day….

Labor Day.

It’s an occasion to celebrate the American worker….. a time to honor the contributions of those whose labor has helped build American into the greatest nation in the world.

To many, Labor Day means a picnic with friends and family, or simply a day of relaxation away from work.

But, for the past few years, the annual observance has brought little cheer for the millions of Americans who are out of work or barely holding on.  We all know someone who’s been touched by the economic crisis….. someone who has lost a job, someone struggling to make ends meet, not knowing how they will pay their children’s tuition or even next month’s electric bill.

It’s almost hard to believe that just a few short years ago, job security was something many of us took for granted.

This Labor Day — however we choose to observe it — we’d do well to use this opportunity to take stock of the many blessings we often take for granted……blessings we enjoy thanks to the labor and self-sacrifice of so many Americans who came before us.

As we try to claw our way back from the worst economic crisis in a generation, it’s more important than ever that we pay tribute to that one indispensible element of a healthy, strong nation – the American worker.

And as we count our blessings, let’s also be mindful of those experiencing hardship……those who seek, but lack, employment.  Our thoughts and well-wishes go to those looking for work.