| Summer Drones |
14 July 2003
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America Needs a Vacation
A sad episode of Buchanan and Press on MSNBC the other day pointed out that 51 % of Americans will not be taking a vacation (going on holiday) this year. A depressing graphic was broadcast showing that Yanks take off 13 days a year, Canadians are next at 26 (still double the American rate), and the fun loving Italians enjoy 44 days off. The debate that ensued was tongue-in-cheek to a degree, with the right-wing Joe Scarborough complaining that Americans were taking too much time off. It used to be that work was the curse of the drinking classes, but American's don't drink as much as they used to either.
On the positive side, the Protestant Work Ethic that most Americans imbibe with their first breath has created a phone system that works, a currency that can buy just about anything anywhere if one can lay hands on enough of it, 24 hour pizzerias and laundromats, and easy credit terms on new or used cars. The fact that things work in America is direct result of the fact that the people in America work. There are supermarkets in many cities that are open 8 hours on national holidays, and customers feel inconvenienced.
On the down side, America's civilization as well as its popular culture are neglected. It is hard to volunteer at the homeless shelter, the art museum or the local library for 10 hours a week if one is working 90 hours a week. Moreover, for many Americans that overtime or second job is needed to make ends meet. The economic benefits are enormous, and the rest of the society is malnourished. This doesn't even begin to address stress, heart disease, and sleepless nights.
There is a time for work, and there is a time for recreation -- the word itself suggests its importance, to "re-create." The rejuvenation, reinvigoration that comes from time off makes work more efficient. President Reagan was notorious for his short working day, yet even his enemies must admit he was the most significant president since FDR in that he changed the nature of the debate entirely.
Another way to look at it, though, is competence. Anyone unable to complete their required duties in forty hours a week, not able to arrange for a week off here and there during the year simply isn't up to the job. Handle wrote the "Messiah" in 22 days it is said; would it have been any more glorious if he had spent more time at it?