Happy New Year!

To me, the new year has always started in September. I've never been a fan of the one in January. I mean it's not the start of anything new except the month of January, and who needs to celebrate that? 

No, my Jewish sisters and brothers have always been correct on this point. I, too, recognize Rosh Hashanah as a chance to begin anew. The seasons are changing (January is smack in the middle of winter - what's that about?), it's back to school time, and all sorts of other things are getting cranked up again. 

There's a feeling of new possibilities in the air.

I remember a sermon from years ago by my favorite priest about this very thing. How he, too, felt that September was the start of a brand new year, new energy and excitement, so much so that he always found himself singing:  

Here I go again
I hear those trumpets blow again
All aglow again
Taking a chance on love

Well, OK, I'm not planning to take a chance on love, but I do think about this sermon, from maybe 35 years ago, and that song when September rolls around. And there is something about this September New Year that's energizing. The anticipation of interesting beginnings and cool autumn weather, even with masks and vaccinations, give me hope heading into my favorite season.

L’Shanah tovah, y'all! Wishing you a good and sweet year ahead.  

Here I go again . . .

Labor Day Salute to the Real Workers

 

If we've learned anything over these past 18 months, it's who the actual boots-on-the-ground workers are in this country. It's the folks who keep things running as safely and smoothly as possible, often at danger to themselves and their families. 

Despite fatigue, uncertainty, and the sheer selfish, despicable behavior of a small but loud chunk of our population, these American heroes show up and perform their duties with the utmost professionalism. 

To the teachers, healthcare workers, domestic and sanitation workers, transportation professionals, wait staffs, construction/landscape/infrastructure workers: Thank you to the moon and back. I see you. I honor you this Labor Day, even though I'm sure you're hard at work, not lounging by a pool. You deserve our respect and a whole lot more pay and benefits. 

To the company big-wigs, fat-cats, and billionaires who refuse to honor those who actually do the work of this country by paying a living wage and providing full benefits: a big, fat raspberry!

Happy Labor Day, honorable workers!