Labor Day
To the editor:
Labor Day; a day to remember are labors, for those who labored before us, and for future generations.
Those before us left us an example to follow. An example that all of us are created equal, and that we always need to look out for one-another. Those before us set an example that we need to sacrifice and labor for the freedom and dignity for all our fellow citizens, now and those to follow.
How do we follow their example? Do we consider our fellow citizens around us during our daily lives? Do we consider and assist our fellow citizens that are less fortunate? Do we consider those whose income level is so low that basic necessities are difficult to acquire — food, housing, clothing, medical care. Do we consider our fellow citizens who may be labeled as blue collar or working class individuals who have families? Families whose income levels and benefits have fallen so low that marriages and family units are breaking apart? What about children whose future rests on the possibility of a decent, or at least an equal education? Equal to what? Equal to a school district next to their own where the property value is more than doubled to that where their parents or guardians live? Where the neighboring district has enough resources and their district does not? Do we consider our fellow citizens when we discuss politics and taxes? Do we consider our fellow citizens when we push for lower taxes or when we attempt to balance budgets
When have we become so self-centered? When did profit and material wealth become our purpose? When have we forgotten that the culture and system that allowed us to be successful now needs our support so others may follow? Could we not grow a little more slowly so that all our citizens could grow equally? Could we attempt to grow side-by-side, equally? Could we not share our wealth more equally, for it is there because of all of our labors and not just a few?
I suggest this Labor Day we try to remember the examples that were before us. I suggest that we labor together to change the direction our country has taken. And I suggest that we pray for the courage and wisdom to change our ways so that all our citizens can share in our prosperity and grow more fully into that which God has intended for us.
The purpose of life is NOT to succeed and build wealth or material gain. The purpose of life is to Live, Learn and Love. Learn the meaning of Compassion and the giving of oneself.
Rev. Kirk A. Rollo
Cape Coral