🧡 Labor of Love, A
Definition:
- A labor of love: Work performed voluntarily, driven by passion or a personal interest, instead of monetary gain or obligatory duty.
Origins:
The term can be traced back to the Epistles of St. Paul in the New Testament—specifically in Hebrews 6:10 and 1 Thessalonians 1:3. Here, it describes the faithful undertaking God’s work out of love for Him rather than obligation.
Synonyms:
- Passion project
- Love-driven effort
- Devotion devotion
Antonyms:
- Grudge job
- Chore
- Mundane task
Similar Expressions:
- Burning the midnight oil: Putting in long hours because of dedication or interest.
- Blood, sweat, and tears: Immense effort and hard work, often for a heartfelt cause.
- Going the extra mile: Going beyond what is required out of passion or commitment.
Humor-filled Quotes:
- “Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” - Mark Twain
- “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life. Unless you count the day of rolling out of bed.” - Anonymouse, rather sleepy philosopher
Proverbs:
- “Do what you love and the money will follow.”
- “Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work.” - Aristotle
Recommended Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies:
- Books:
- The Joy of Cooking by Irma S. Rombauer - A culinary labor of love.
- Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed - Bringing light through heartfelt advice.
- Songs:
- “Do What You Love” by Joss Stone - Finding and following passion.
- “9 to 5” by Dolly Parton - It’s a song about work, but we all know Dolly loved it.
- Poetry:
- “I Carry Your Heart with Me” by E. E. Cummings - Filled with heartfelt devotion.
- “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost - A journey inspired by personal preference.
- Movies:
- Julie & Julia - Passion for cooking blogging takes center stage.
- Dead Poets Society - “O Captain! My Captain!” a testament to following one’s passion.
### Which of these embodies a labor of love?
- [ ] At a factory, performing repetitive tasks
- [x] Volunteering at a community garden, cherishing every bloom
- [ ] Filing expense reports at a job
- [ ] Washing the dishes begrudgingly
> **Explanation:** Volunteering at a community garden out of love for gardening and the community epitomizes a labor of love. The other tasks lack the intrinsic motivation and personal passion.
### Identify the phrase implying passion-driven work:
- [ ] Dragging one’s feet
- [ ] Wearing many hats
- [ ] Drowning in paperwork
- [x] Pursuing a passion project
> **Explanation:** Personal projects undertaken out of enthusiasm and interest are the hallmark of labors of love. The rest are mere obligations and responsibilities.
### What is the essence of 'a labor of love'?
- [ ] Completions matched with bonuses
- [x] Deep personal satisfaction and fulfillment
- [ ] Clocking in and out briskly
- [ ] Rote, mundane tasks
> **Explanation:** A labor of love centers on fulfillment and purpose, far removed from the mechanics of routine or pursuit of monetary reward.
Farewell note: “May you always find joy in your passions and always let your heart guide your endeavors. Live richly in the love of your labor.” - W. E. Hartwork