Poetry Corner: Labor Day

With 19th century, you know,
Labor began its rise,
and cities in America
grew great—–that’s no surprise.

Chicago was “Big Shoulders” town,
New York, “Big Apple,” true.
“The Motor City” was Detroit,
and yet, we’ve lost some too.

For once upon our Nation’s time,
America grew strong
as Middle Class expanded wide,
with Life—— a lovely song.

Well—here we are 2014
recession is no boon,
though still a holiday for some.
we sing a sadder tune.

Though labor unions gave us much
an 8 hour day—that’s true.
But now so many lack 8 hours—
and gosh, their rent is due!

Strong Labor gained vacation time
and pensions too, I’ve heard.
But now—that seems a distant dream;
for college grads—absurd!

For Labor once built people up,
a life long job—-one place!
Made in America——-oh yes!
Production was our base.

Somehow, it seems that PROFITS reign,
and sharing? Not enough.
Some corporations large have morphed,
into —–JABBA the HUTT!

Now— Congress, we must say to you,
for truly—–“Who’s your Daddy?”
As some just work for Corporate Needs;
People’s treatment? Shabby!

Perhaps you think me cynical.
Let’s raise the Loving Cup!
As nation, now we spend large sums
on blowing places up!

In World war II, the Marshall Plan,
it won both hearts and minds.
And people knew that TRUST was glue;
we live in changing times.

But change is ever going on,
it’s time to switch our thrust.
“Do unto others” is the theme;
In thoughtfulness we trust!

What happens to the Web of Life,
it happens to us too.
And— if we all forget this fact—
the Future we will rue.

So Labor on this Labor Day
remembering History,
and if we take Life’s Web to heart,
our best will surely be!