February 2, 2026
Tonight was one of those evenings where the errand list felt a mile long. Somewhere between the stops, we realized we needed to refuel, so we ducked into a family-run restaurant for supper.
While the food was good, it was the atmosphere that really stopped me in my tracks.
I sat there watching the employees work, and I have to tell you, it was a breath of fresh air. If you go out to eat lately, you know the drill: you see a lot of folks—especially from the younger generations, the Gen Z’ers and Millennials—kind of just… existing. Standing around, looking at phones, or waiting for the clock to run out.
But not here.
This crew had that old-time work ethic that you just don’t see much anymore. Most of the staff were in their 50s and 60s, and they were moving. There was a rhythm to it. Tables were cleared, drinks were filled, and food was replenished without anyone having to ask. Even the younger employees there seemed to have caught the bug—everyone kept busy. There was no leaning.
But more than the hustle, it was the spirit. They were smiling. They were laughing. They were genuinely interacting with us as customers and joking around with each other. It didn’t feel like a grind; it felt like they actually took pride in what they were doing and enjoyed the people they were doing it with. The Apostle Paul spoke to that kind of ethic. He wrote:
"Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ."
I realized tonight that I am incredibly thankful for that kind of work ethic. It is becoming such a rarity in the service industry to see people who not only work hard but do it with a glad heart. It was refreshing, impressive, and honestly, it made the meal taste that much better. Here’s to the workers who still know the value of a job well done.