Work Ethic

I am on a "soap box" when it comes to our young people and the education system. The educational system in Kansas has changed drastically during the past ten years. More accountability, more rigorous academic standards, and now, with No Child Left Behind, increased accountability at the national level.

One of the exit outcomes of our school system is a simple outcome but one that I feel has been lost by the new generation. Work ethic.

Work ethic is a set of values based on the moral virtues of hard work and diligence. A work ethic may include being reliable, having initiative or maintaining social skills.

Talking about work ethic is easy, actually putting it into practice is difficult.

Growing up I had some great examples of individuals that had a positive work ethic. My dad and my grandfather were extremely hardworking individuals. Working was expected. Working hard and long hours was expected.

Today, I am witnessing young people who expect a great paying job, but not having to do much on the job. I see those without initiative. I see those being fired because they are continually late to work. I see poor social and people skills. What has happened?

It's easy today to quit. Easy to say "I don't have to do it." We live in a "Burger King" society. Have it your way! My way is right, so don't tell me what to do.

The dropout rate is increasing. Marriages are deteriorating. Divorce is at an all-time high. Churches are losing members. What has happened?

I believe we will see a real change in the schools, society and even in the church when moms and dads realize what's truly important in life.

It's not about me. It's about my example to my kids, my spouse, my boss and my co-workers. Its doing more than expected at work. It's doing more for your spouse than whats expected. It's sacrificing for your family so maybe debt doesn't destroy a marriage. It's volunteering at church to help a family or individual who is in need.

Work ethic must be practiced. We must have an appreciation for hard work. We must have an appreciation for the jobs and opportunities that God has blessed us with. We must respect authority and be sensitive to those that we work with.

1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
"Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody."