The first Labor Day was celebrated September 5, 1882. In the 130 years since, Labor Day brings to mind many different things. For many, Labor Day signals the end of summer. No more days at the beach, going to summer camp, the Jerry Lewis telethon, or staying outside playing ball until the street lights come on. The Monday after Labor Day for many is the beginning of school; be it the first day of kindergarten or the last semester in college, many tears are shed on that Monday.
Labor Day, more importantly, honors the vital force that labor has added materially to the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world has ever known. Recently, one way to observe this holiday is to volunteer. There are many organizations and charities that can use your help. So throw something on the grill, discuss where you might be able to lend a helping hand, and pay tribute the creator of so much of the nation’s strength, freedom, and leadership – the American worker.