The Labor Day holiday invariably reminds me of my father, a shop steward and union rep for many years, who worked many long hours at a job he wasn’t crazy about to support his family. He always told me how important his union was, how lucky he was to have it at New York Telephone for forty years–his job supported us all (six kids) on one salary. This song reminds me a lot of him. He was a tireless man who still had time for kid activities, coaching, volunteering at the church and scouts, and too many other things to name. He was a great guy and I miss him.

Happy labor day to everyone, especially those of us working at jobs where we are perhaps underpaid or unappreciated. Your families understand–you’re what makes our country work.