The 'But It's Honest Work' meme features a photo of David Brandt, a real-life Ohio farmer celebrated for his pioneering work in sustainable soil health. The image originally appeared in a 2014 U.S. Department of Agriculture article, but it achieved internet immortality in late 2018 when it was repurposed as a reaction image. It perfectly encapsulates a sense of pride in modest accomplishments or low-level productivity. People use it to acknowledge tasks that aren't glamorous or world-changing—like fixing a tiny line of code or cleaning a single room—but still represent a genuine, ethical effort. It has since become a staple for humble-bragging and celebrating the dignity of the daily grind.