As a mom, I read a lot of children’s books. As a homeschooling mom, I probably read even more. I love books, so that’s okay by me!
My children and I read a great little book called Katy and the Big Snow today. Besides being a fun story, this sparked a conversation about what it takes to run a city. In the story, a snowstorm renders the city streets impassable. We see the firefighters unable to get to a fire, a doctor unable to get his patient to the hospital, the postal service unable to deliver the mail, along with other community helpers and businesses unable to function. Katy, the heroine of the story, plows the streets and saves the day.
This is a nice demonstration of the way people depend on each other. In the case of a snowstorm, we rely on the snowplow drivers that work so hard to clear the roads. We rely on each other everyday. My children and I talked about the various jobs and services that help our communities run smoothly. We adults certainly have seen that some professions carry more prestige or higher wages, but let’s not forget that there is a wide range of jobs that benefit our communities. There is value in all honest work.
Be not simply good... 
I love this lesson! In fact, it’s one I always try to remember. I smile at everyone and thank them for the job they’re doing. No matter your job, do it to the best of your ability and you’ll go far!
I absolutely agree on both counts! Do your best and treat others with courtesy and respect.
As the daughter-in-law of a snowplow driver I realize the personal commitment one must make just to clean the streets! Just last Christmas Day my father-in-law had to get up at 4 a.m to plow his own 1/4 mile long driveway just to get into town to move snow.
Jeni, I didn’t realize he does that. I am SO THANKFUL for snowplow drivers! Boy, will we need them this weekend!!