I am frequently and pleasantly surprised by how often the lessons of today can be found in the Bible. The first Commandment that had an impact on daily (or weekly) life was, “Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy.” That was the beginning of the concept of taking time off from the mundane, profane and inane activities of life and giving the body and mind a rest. What started as a six day work week eventually became the foundation for the vacation.
Some people do not have the luxury of a vacation. Many of my clients are unable to work, and when a person loses the ability to work, he or she also loses the ability to take time off from work. That sounds odd, but the distinction between doing “a day’s work for a day’s pay” and R&R is part of the fabric of our lives. People who can no longer work experience a tear in that fabric that is real and unsettling.
I am thankful for my job and the work I do. As my friend and colleague John Farneti once put it, my job gives me an opportunity to do good work that helps people. Most people have the same opportunity, even if they are not in a professional or service industry. Regardless of whether you are a lawyer, doctor, nurse, educator, pipefitter, truck driver, construction worker, or stay-at-home Mom, the work you do helps others and contributes to the good of your community. A job well done makes everyone’s life better.
Many of us are taking time off this week to celebrate our nation’s Independence. As we commemorate the birth of our country, we should give ourselves a true break from work. For me, that means putting down the computer and the Blackberry, or as my legal assistant Debbie describes it, “unplugging myself.” We have a terrific staff, and three other lawyers in my firm who can handle emergencies.
Have a great Fourth. Enjoy your family and friends. Eat a hot dog and a piece of apple pie. The work will still be there when you are done!
