September 6, 2020
Good morning my friends. I hope you are all enjoying a happy and relaxing Labor Day weekend. Be sure to make time to enjoy and be grateful for life. Even with the chaos and craziness, self-care is one of the most important things you can do for you. When you’re happy, the world is easier to navigate. It builds self-confidence and mental fortitude. Discover the bliss in life. Your family, friends and those closest to you, will benefit from your joy. Choose happiness. It’s completely up to you, and not dependent on anyone or anything.
Do you know how the Labor Day Holiday originated? In the mid to late 1800’s the Industrial Revolution was at its peak. Many people (including children) were working 12+ hour days in factories, mills and shops. Peter McGuire, a labor union leader in New York City, originally proposed the idea in 1882. He believed American workers should have a holiday to honor them. The New York City Labor Union agreed with his idea. The holiday quickly spread to other states. The push for an eight-hour work day began in 1886. Labor Day became a national holiday in 1894. Activism against child labor began in the early 1900’s. The United States was growing economically and developing as a world power. Our population was increasing by leaps and bounds. Immigrants from all around the globe flocked to this country to become Americans.
Labor Day is traditionally observed on the first Monday of September. The holiday was designated on that date to provide an additional break between Independence Day and Thanksgiving. The date typically meant the end of summer, but I’m not sure that still applies today (especially with the chaos over the last six months). Many families enjoy time off and summer vacations together. Kids return to school after the summer break. This year, it’s difficult to explain what’s been happening. Schools and careers have been turned upside down from the virus. Over the last decade, schools have started classes earlier to accommodate district and parental needs. I can only imagine the challenges and difficulties parents, and children, have been dealing with this year. The best solution is to always keep pushing forward. Success is achieved through discipline, hard work and perseverance. The educational system, as well as kids and parents, need to step up and make it work. I believe a big dose of thanks and gratitude is always helpful too, no matter what. Consider what our parents and grandparents faced when they came to America.
My father’s parents immigrated to the United States from Italy in the early 1900s. His family settled in the Ohio Valley. My grandfather worker in the coal mines. The surrounding area was littered with them. Coal fueled industries, transportation and homes. My Dad was the youngest of seven siblings; five brothers and one sister. He grew up in an ethnically and racially diverse community. He enjoyed sharing stories of his childhood. His friendships were many and life-long. Visiting family in Ohio seemed to bring his stories instantly to life. His vibrant accounts included many memories of family, friends, school and naughty antics. The tragic deaths of two brothers brought trauma and pain. He talked about the community support his family received from a spectrum of people. They were an ethnic and cultural mix of Americans. These were simpler times. People worked hard long hours for everything they had. Respect, honesty and gratitude were the fabric of society.
My mother’s family also immigrated from Italy to the America. She was born in Italy and was the youngest of ten siblings. Her family came to the USA to escape Mussolini. He was a Fascist dictator, who with the help of supporters, overthrew the democratic government in 1922. My mom recalled having to salute ‘Il Duce’ (his nickname) every morning at elementary school. He ruled in tyranny. My mother’s family fled their home, to escape his authoritarian government. They were allowed to leave with one suit case each of personnel items. Their home, property and all belongings went to Mussolini and the state (socialism at work). He would later align himself with Hitler, and Nazi Germany, during World War II. These were sad times for Italy.
My mom came through Ellis Island, with her family, in the mid 1930s. More than 12 million immigrants entered the USA, via the island in New York Harbor, between 1892 and 1954. Mom often spoke of the trauma she endured being separated from her family after disembarking from the ship. She didn’t speak English and had no idea what was occurring. Her family ultimately settled in the Ohio Valley. They were happy to be free! My parents, aunts and uncles told many stories of life growing up. My sister and I often asked our parents why they didn’t teach us Italian. Their immediate response was, “We’re Americans. We speak English.” It’s interesting how assimilating into your new home and country has lost its significance for many immigrants. Have the reasons to come here changed? Is the desire to come here for different reasons now? Maybe it’s not to be an American, but to take advantage of the free services and handouts. For others it might be to spread hate, create division and perpetrate violence.
The area my parents grew up in was not wealthy or affluent. The communities were filled with hard working families. They were supportive of each other, happy, grateful and proud to be Americans. It was always fun for me to visit their home towns. People were friendly, courteous and caring. It was easy to recognize the genuine spirit of good will they all shared. Somewhere over the last several decades, some Americans have lost that spirt. Individuals and groups tarnish the wonderful characteristics of our nation to achieve their own agenda. Freedom and happiness isn’t part of their plan. Some politicians support this anti-American rhetoric. It’s all intertwined to enhance their individual power and control over a nation and its population.
I think it’s interesting how some people, living here, find it necessary to hold onto or maintain an ethnic identity? Enjoying your culture and family roots is wonderful and expected. The vast majority of these people (many are born here), yet refuse to assimilate to our country. They refuse to become Americans. Why are they here? I am grateful and enjoy my cultural heritage, but it’s not who I am. My parents and their families are proud to live here and be Americans. There are people, from many races, that expect free handouts for just living here. They have no desire or motivation to work or improve their lives. Our government has been very generous to provide for the needs of some individuals with our tax dollars. I am happy to help those who cannot help themselves. Unfortunately, there are many who are lazy or unwilling to work, especially when they can get it for free. If you want to make a difference in this world, put in the work. There are individuals that expect the government to provide them with free medical care, a free education, free housing and food. That is a socialist illusion and not a reality (anywhere).
Now we have people lobbying to empty the prisons and defund the police. Those attempts must be stopped. There is an evil segment in our population. They have no desire to work, obey laws or be part of a decent society. Their criminal acts destroy lives, create chaos and bring death to communities. They take what they want without feelings, conscience or remorse. They do not accept the responsibility for their own actions. They blame others for their acts of harm and violence. Restricting or removing police officers, while releasing criminals from jails to freely roam our streets is a recipe for disaster. The thought of it is ridiculous and unsettling. It is already occurring in cities across our nation. Violent crime is rising; while mayors, governors and state representatives do nothing.
The violent, criminal protestors and anarchists do not care about our freedom or rights. Their only purpose is to push an evil agenda. Violence, looting and destruction isn’t about racial or social equality. Their action is to spread hate and division. These individuals, and those that support them, are demonstrating their ability to destroy our way of life and our nation. Groups like Antifa and BLM are aligned with the leftist propaganda, to destroy our society and freedoms. These radical groups are fueled by politicians seeking to gain power and control. These people are not “workers, artisans, laborers, professionals or breadwinners.” They have no interest in our lives or wellbeing. There have always been a few bad in every group, profession, career, race and nationality. It appears the scales have tipped in the other direction when it comes to bad politicians. They have failed to represent our nation, and only pursue their own interests or agenda. America needs strong leadership, not career politicians.
For many professionals (law enforcement, first responders, military personnel and many other essential workers) holidays are just another work day. During my career in law enforcement when I had a day off, that was my holiday. Individuals with families always seem to be rearranging or rescheduling in order to attend celebrations or special events. There are times altering schedules just isn’t possible, so you adjust and do the best you can. I’ve missed holidays, events and parties, but I always accepted the responsibilities of my profession. That was my calling, as it is for so many men and women who share the same ideals and love of our country.
Military, police, fire and medical personnel are always working. They do not close for holidays. Our military personnel are deployed around the globe, often for months at a time. We truly own a debt of gratitude and thanks to all the men and women who serve to protect our freedom. If you think your schedule is tough, consider what all these individuals deal with on a daily basis. They are the real heroes. They are standing watch, no matter what the situation, weather or time of day.
The world can be fraught with anxiety and uncertainty. Chaos has consumed some nations. Civil unrest and violence continues to negatively impact our own country. America needs to take a step back and reflect on what’s occurring here at home. Please take the time to calm your mind and body by seeking solace and comfort from your own inner peace. Stay strong knowing we can help empower our own destiny. Knowledge is power. We must all seek the truth. We won’t find the answers from news outlets or social media. They are sharing only what the leftist agenda wants you to hear. Be your own person. Don’t be swayed by outrage, threats or victimization. Together we can keep America great, while maintaining equality and freedom for all. Be safe and stay healthy.
Congratulations and Happy Labor Day to all you people that keep our nation growing and moving forward. You make America the great country that we know and love. We are lucky and blessed to live in this amazing and free land. There are so many people around the world who wish they could enjoy some of the rights and freedoms we take for granted. I am grateful every day for being an American.
In remembrance, this coming Friday is the 19th Anniversary of the September 11th attack. I ask that you please take a moment to remember the thousands of lives lost. Pray for the families and friends of all the individuals who perished that tragic day. Never forget the valor and courage of the first responders, firefighters, law enforcement and military personnel. We must never allow their memories to be tarnished. Our heroes continue to stand to protect us; as we need to stand to protect them.
Please tune in and join me again next Sunday for more! The healthy life puzzle is always in rotation. Let’s be healthy and strong mentally, physically and spiritually!
Thanks for your love and support! Embrace Life! Be sure to get outside and enjoy nature!
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