Happy Labor Day & Right Livelihood

Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.  –U.S. Department of Labor

I am working on Labor Day this year. I am happy to be sharing my day with others, practicing mindfulness meditation.

Many people have the day off from their regular work schedule.

Others may have to work even though they would enjoy having the day off.

I feel gratitude that I am able and eager to work. I also feel gratitude for the baristas who get up early on this national holiday to make my latte so I can feel awake at work. I feel gratitude for the sanitation workers who pick up the garbage on holidays. And I feel gratitude for the police officers, firefighters, doctors, nurses, hospital staff, members of our military, and many others who work on this and every holiday to keep us safe and render assistance if needed.

The Buddha talked about Right Livelihood, one of the parts of the Eight Fold Path. There are a number of definitions for what it means to engage in Right Livelihood with the common denominator being attaining prosperity through ethical work. How is my work affecting others? Me? The Environment?

I am hopeful that your Labor Day is filled with all good things and that you will take a few moments to think about those who are working, those who are enjoying a day off, and the meaning of Right Livelihood to you.

Here’s the full text of the History of Labor Day form the U.S. Department of Labor. Here’s a thoughtful article from Lewis Richmond about Right Livelihood.