Opinion

Tough times for the economy mean escalating unemployment and the consequent nervousness that makes everyone meticulously monitor the percentage of the American population without jobs. Often there is an air of crisis around the reporting of the growing numbers of the unemployed.

Those with jobs breathe sighs of relief that they still are working. Though there may be complaints about one's job, the employed generally consider themselves blessed.

The unemployed and the underemployed often grapple with issues of self-respect and with the frustration that spills out on all their familial and neighborly relationships.

Human nature is created to fill the earth and subdue it and to have dominion over all the earth (Genesis 1:28). The effort of labor of all kinds — physical, intellectual and spiritual — is a necessary part of life as God has made it. To respect that facet of human makeup, to foster meaningful work for everyone and to appreciate the work of others and oneself are essential in giving our humanity its deserved appreciation. It is part of our worship of God to be grateful for our ability to labor.

Labor Day is a good time to assess the degree to which one understands his work within the context of God's design for our human makeup. It is an opportunity to help enhance the workplace for others as well as oneself.

Throughout our archdiocese in many parishes, some form of employment network has grown up to assist unemployed parishioners find job leads through the attentiveness of other parishioners. These efforts are sometimes quiet and draw little attention. But in many parishes the effort has been organized into a substantial activity with great results.

With the summer vacation time over, this is an opportune moment to assess the degree of respect that flows from our workplace relationships: Employers and employees giving each other their due, in justice. Antagonisms and enmity in the workplace must never be allowed to develop or continue. Respect and mutual cooperation should be woven into the fabric of every workplace.

It is God's direction to every human from the very beginning.