Recently I have heard a growing recognition of the people who make another’s work possible. Some examples:
- The newest Crate & Barrel catalog features three women carpenters and designers on its cover with the headline: She Makes Us Crate. The opening spread is dedicated to the women in the woodshop who build the sets which grace the pages of the catalog.
- In a People magazine interview, Mark Harmon expresses his appreciation for the crew of NICS: “This show represents a livelihood for a whole lot of people who arrive long before I do and leave well after me and don’t get paid nearly as much,” he said.
- The Academy Awards (and other similar shows) give trophies not just to the actors, but to the sound mixer, film editor, set designer, etc. etc. etc. – paying tribute to those behind the scenes.
- When speaking in favor of a Wealth Tax during a stump speech, Elizabeth Warren noted that to make their mega-fortunes business owners relied on roads, bridges, infrastructure and other community services to achieve their wealth and did not earn it all on their own.
Take a moment to think of all those who have made your work possible: the maintenance crews, technology support, central office functions, past colleagues, delivery staff and countless others. More people do their work “behind the scenes” than could ever be on the stage.
Choose someone whose work has allowed you to do yours and show them some appreciation today.
