When we think of Labor Day, we tend to look at it as an American holiday. Actually it was first instituted by Canada after many labor disputes over 12 hour work days. Like our neighbors to the north, the U.S. quickly followed suit and Labor Day was designated as a day to honor all the workers who helped to make our country into what it is.

It’s hard to imagine working for 12 hours each day – especially in jobs that require you to be awake and alert. For example, if you were a laborer in the steel industry and fell asleep at the job it could mean the difference between life and death.

At the turn of the 19^th century, the leaders of industry were interested in building this new nation with all of its natural resources. The physical resources of everyday men and women provided the necessary grit and stamina to bring those ideas to fruition.

We still need to honor the workers in our country. We also need to be thankful for the jobs that are available and the many opportunities for us to work. We should thank God for giving men of vision great minds and ways to put those minds into action so that we can continue to work.

Labor’s Call – a lyric by J. A. Edgerton 1910′

Men of Labor, ‘tis the hour!  Front it with united power!         Hark from freedom’s signal tower, Hear the call.

‘Tis the summons of your fate!  Rise and win before too late!Coward-like to shrink and wait.  Means your fall.

Strike while justice is in reach!  Let this badge of golden speech Be your motto: all for each.  Each for all!