THE WORK ETHIC

Webster defines the “work ethic” as, “A belief in the moral benefit and importance of work and its inherent ability to strengthen character”.

Four of the Geezers ( average age 67) were completing the “Beautification Project” at the Community Center. Between wiping our brows and shoveling rock in the 90-degree plus heat, we were each describing our most physically demanding job, why we were willing to do such painful, exhaustive work in our youth, and more puzzling, why we had now volunteered to punish our “mature” bodies again?

Perhaps it is because we shared a “work ethic”. We could each recall feeling lucky to be employed at even a demanding, low paying job at some time in our lives, and we would jump at the chance to work overtime.

Have you heard from younger people such comments as: “I’m not working overtime. I’ve got social activities for the weekend.” or “I’m quitting this job because it’s too hard.” Even some mature adults don’t believe in the benefits of hard work. Recently a 60 year old man said, “By the time you put all the effort into learning a vocation, get up every day and go to work, pay for clothes and a car and other expenses, it just isn’t worth it.” And he is one who criticizes one of the strengths of America – Capitalism.

So many people are envious of those who can afford to buy and do whatever they please. When someone says, “ Bill Gates has no right to earn so much money when I earn so little!” they should be reminded that the opportunities are there for anyone, regardless of status, race, religion, or other distinction, to be whatever they might choose. It’s mostly a matter of how badly they want it, and how hard they are willing to work. One must wonder whether those who feel somehow deprived, have a work ethic, and were willing to sacrifice personal pleasures to raise them above the multitudes.

To most of the Geezers, “socialism” is still a dirty word; one not respected by our founders when they created the basis for the most powerful, productive, and benevolent country on earth. It’s a socialistic principle to believe that those who are able, but unwilling, to work hard at a promising vocation should have as much as those who do.

If this wonderful society is to survive under the onslaught of criticism from envious people here and around the world, our youth must understand this.

We need to put a “work glove” on every hand extended for a share of the wealth and opportunity our society provides. And in order to be charitable to those who simply can’t work, we must make sure not to give a “free ride” to those who can! Work is good for the pocketbook, the character, and for our country!

This is just my opinion, but “That’s The Way I See It!”

NJ