My Aunt Sarah was a hard working woman who raised four children during the depression. She was twice divorced and supported herself by being a waitress. Sarah could have a very sharp tongue if you happened on a topic of conversation that was very controversial or very sensitive for her.

We were at a family get together and the topic of waitressing came up. I innocently said that I didn’t think that was something that I could do.

WHAT’S WRONG WITH BEING A WAITRESS???!!! This was from Aunt Sarah. I stammered that there wasn’t anything wrong with being a waitress, I just didn’t think that was the type of job for me. Aunt Sarah huffed and turned to converse with another family member. I had escaped from a tongue lashing. Whew!

Sarah was sensitive about her choice of career path. How many times do we hear today that they are ONLY a waitress? (What a waste) Yes, the words in the parenthesis are implied. We do this with a lot of what we consider entry level jobs. Yes, I realize that for many people that is exactly what they are. But have you ever thought about what the world would be like without the waitresses? Without the laborers? Without the grocery clerks? Without the uber/taxi drivers? All these jobs that I’ve named (and there are a ton more I haven’t named) are jobs that are low paying but are essential to the world moving along at a good pace. Some people love these jobs and don’t see them as a jumping off point to a better paying position.

One time when I was working “temps” they called to see if I would be interested in taking a one-week job as a janitor. They needed a fill in since the person I would replace would be on vacation. I thought, why not! How hard can it be? Let me tell you, I found muscles I didn’t know I had that week and the only thing that kept me coming back every day was knowing that it was only for a week!! But I learned that most of the jobs that we sneer at are very hard jobs.

Look around and see the “small” people. The ones who are overworked and underpaid. Give them a smile and encourage them. Call them by name if there is a nametag. Say hello, good morning, how are you? Recognize them as people who are made in God’s image. God loves them as much as He loves you.