Very inspiring look at being part of the workforce. I have heard it said, Find a job you love, and you will never work a day in your life.
My first job was at the age of 15 (unless you count being a paperboy). I worked making submarine sandwiches as a boy in South Jersey after school. No Subway hoagie shops back in those days.
Since then I have been a US Marine, Citizen Soldier, Legal Clerk, Lay Minister, Tobacco Harvester, VA Employee (laundry), Nurses Aide, Mechanic, Car Detailer, and the list goes on...
Some of the jobs? Hated them yet, I learned something. The job one holds is like life itself. It is what we make it. If I choose to focus on what is bad about my job instead of what is good? I am going to be miserable.
That is the message I received after reading your post. Very good!
Blessings and groovy vibes for you and your loved ones.