Today is Labor Day and my mind turns to what this day is about: we, who work. It seems that, often in this country, we focus on the deeds of a well-publicized few…. and a bit too much, in my humble opinion. We train our eyes on a select few segments of people in this world. Meanwhile, there are over 7 billion of us on this spinning orb, and, as Walt Whitman proclaimed, we “contain multitudes.” This day is about those who do daily, unseen, uncelebrated and often underappreciated. It’s a chance to give all of us doers – a break.

But the last 18 months have been difficult for anyone who must labor to earn, live, support, and survive, so today is even more special. So here is my prayer for us all.

If you have worked consistently over the last 18 months, congratulations and well done. There were so many losses this year and you survived it. You need rest, and of course gratitude. Find rest today.

If you’ve been out of work, try not to let it crush your spirit. There will be opportunities, and there are new ones daily. What do you love to do? What do you want for yourself and your family? People are choosing new paths during this time of uncertainty, and with great outcomes. You need hope. Don’t just dine on anxiety and fear. Reach out for help. And today, I wish you a new sense of hope.

If you love what you do for work or a career, celebrate today. There are many who may never do the work they dream about, but if you are a lucky one who does have their dream job, ….. say it out loud today. “I love what I do and I’m grateful!” Find a way to celebrate today.

Finally, if you are at the beginning of something brand new – be it personal or professional – you need joy. The beginnings of journeys and adventures are pure potential. Embrace all of that joy that comes from a new start. Find joy today and bring it with you into your new enterprises.

Today, Ryan and I wish you all whatever it is you seek, be it work, rest, hope, celebration, or joy. But most of all, we wish you peace. Happy Labor Day.

We love family portraits whether they are set in the studio, the great outdoors, a specific location like the mountains or high country, or on our property in our outdoor portrait garden. Pixels on Paper photographs newborns and families, special events and portraits  of all kinds in our Wilkesboro, NC studio. We would be honored to meet with you, learn about you and your family and be a part of taking special portraits that will become, we hope, family heirlooms.

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