HAPPY LABOR (AND UNEMPLOYMENT) DAY

Why we even bother any longer to pay lip service by setting aside a day to honor those who work, I can't say. The workers, those who are lucky enough to have jobs, have been trampled upon time and again here in these United States. Thus the national day of honor seems ever more hypocritical each year when it rolls around. Who amongst the powerful gives a shit about the workers? Let them stand up and be counted and show us by deeds and not just by empty words.

The power of unions as a political force, except for the public employee unions, has been emasculated by laws which weakened them and allowed the giant global corporations to have their way. Even now, politicians are working overtime to destroy any power that the public service unions retain. So the Woody Guthrie video and the prayers for workers and for the unemployed that follow are all I have for you today, my readers. I'm flying on a wing and a prayer in the hope that, despite all evidence to the contrary, things will get better.

Almighty God, you have so linked our lives one with another that all we do affects, for good or ill, all other lives: So guide us in the work we do, that we may do it not for self alone, but for the common good; and, as we seek a proper return for our own labor, make us mindful of the rightful aspirations of other workers, and arouse our concern for those who are out of work; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Heavenly Father, we remember before you those who suffer want and anxiety from lack of work. Guide the people of this land so to use our public and private wealth that all may find suitable and fulfilling employment, and receive just payment for their labor; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.