 What We Labor For
A bold young fawn was just chased through the field behind my house by a larger deer – likely the mother or father. Watching, I remarked on the fawn’s small frame. It seemed odd to see such a young deer so late in August. I hope its delicate frame will carry it through the harder months ahead where food is less plentiful and the temperatures less placid.
We are a the edge of the summer – being drawn slowly, back into our routines – work or school or seeing our young ones off to their activities. We may do so with anticipation or anxiety – knowing very full and often exhausting days are ahead, but I hope we all do so sensing that the summer has brought us some rest – some time for quieter reflection and growth.
I am so grateful for my summer rest. This congregation, as most Unitarian Universalist congregations offers their ministers both vacation and study leave. This is a profound gift that I do not take lightly.
In the beginning of September we celebrate Labor Day – a holiday that acknowledges the sacrifices and the dignity of laborers. This is a day for rest – a day when children can forgo classes and workers should be able to stay home.
Reflecting on the gift of my summer leave I am profoundly aware that my situation is unique. The majority of the American population is overworked. Many labor in jobs where they are afforded little or no time off – and many are asked to work long difficult hours without adequate compensation.
In this time of economic turmoil and confusion the pressures upon all workers are great. If they are lucky enough to retain employment their employers can pressure them to dole out more product for less pay … or else.
Labor day comes on the edge of summer. It reminds us to honor laborers but it does so by calling us to rest. We are not solely the product of our labor. Our jobs should not define our existence. Without rest and reflection we can easily lose sight of the larger picture – that we are called to something more than ‘production,’ more than getting the job done.
Like the deer who I hope has grown enough in the warm easier months of summer to make it through the harsh winter, I wish for us all the space to grow into our full selves so that our labor does not overtake our being.
Our liturgical theme for September is “Call / Vocation.” I look forward to sharing more on this theme throughout the month and especially on September 20th – What do we labor for? What are we truly called to do? Is there space in our lives to do/live both?
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