Willem Lange is a man who has experienced a wide range of jobs throughout his life, from digging ditches to framing houses to teaching. In a recent article, he reflects on the concept of work and what it means to different people. He starts by recounting a conversation with a friend who claimed he had never done an honest day’s work in his life, despite Lange’s varied and physically demanding jobs.
Lange delves into the idea of work as explored by author and broadcaster Studs Terkel in his book „Working.“ He acknowledges that work is a central aspect of most people’s lives, whether they are actively working, retired, searching for work, or unable to find suitable employment. In the current political climate, work has become a focal point for both major parties, with promises of prosperity and justice for the working class.
The author shares his personal perspective on work, shaped by his experiences as a farmer, builder, and logger. He finds virtue in hard physical labor, such as rising early to be first in line at the lumber yard or stacking firewood at the end of a long day. Lange emphasizes the satisfaction of completing a physically demanding task and the sense of accomplishment that comes with it.
However, as he discusses the topic with a graduate school professor, Lange gains a new understanding of work. He acknowledges that not all hard work is physical and that desk jobs can be equally demanding and stressful. The professor’s insight challenges Lange’s preconceived notions about what constitutes hard work and the rewards that come with it.
Lange reflects on the diversity of jobs and the different forms of hard work that people engage in. He highlights the importance of recognizing the efforts of individuals in all types of professions, whether they are working in the fields or in an office. He emphasizes that each person’s contribution to their work, no matter how different it may be, is valuable and deserving of respect.
In conclusion, Lange expresses gratitude for the variety of jobs he has held over the years and the lessons they have taught him. He acknowledges that each job has led him to something better and that he is now able to enjoy the fruits of his labor as he nears the end of his career. Through his reflections on work, Lange offers a nuanced perspective on the value of different types of labor and the importance of recognizing the efforts of all individuals in the workforce.