By Cathy Costello
Our state motto “Labor Omnia Vincit” translates from Latin to English as “Labor Conquers All”.
Oklahomans are accustomed to work – hard work, that is, and that hard work has provided each new generation a better life than the preceding generation. However, this Labor Day we find many of our fellow Oklahomans are disappointed in the failure of their state government to handle the people’s business in a competent manner by delivering a state budget that fails to meet the minimum standards of our state constitution. When government fails to do its job, it is the citizens of Oklahoma who bear the burden.
Fortunatley, the success of much of the private sector does not mirror the failings of our state government. Lest we forget, it’s the private sector that creates real jobs that generate wealth and prosperity.
Labor Day is a celebration of success for those who understand the dignity that comes from a job. The use of God given talent to achieve meaningful employment and to provide for one’s family is most worthy and to be celebrated. So, for many Oklahomans they will enjoy Labor Day at the lake, having a cook out, or traveling to visit family members. In other words, they will enjoy the fruits of their labor.
However, not all Oklahomans will enjoy this Labor Day. When state taxing and spending policy is in flux due to state government budgeting failure, businesses take a ‘wait and see’ approach to investing money into their operations, which translates into lost opportunities for employment. Furthermore, the pail of disappointment that thousands of our hard working classroom teachers face mires the joy of Labor Day for them.
My late husband and former Labor Commissioner Mark Costello and I launched our first business in 1982 right after we got married. Mark borrowed $2,500 from me and together we turned it into a thriving company. During our 33 years of marriage, we successfully launched 8 businesses in 6 different industries serving customers in over 60 countries, all while raising and educating our 5 children. I know first-hand the challenges that business owners face and I also know what it takes to create good paying jobs.
From our Dust Bowl Days of yesteryear, to the many booms and busts of the oil patch, it is in our DNA to look to the future with historic optimism. After all, Labor Conquers All.
A businesswoman and former educator, Cathy Costello holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Kansas. She married Mark Costello in January 1982 and together raised 5 children.
