As I look back on the longest part of my life, and ahead at the shortest bit remaining, I can’t help but observe the folly of our human tactics to coerce others into giving us our way.
Witnessing yet the latest in what I’ve come to call “organized adult tantrum,” this time by B.C. teachers, I have to wonder if they really and truly know what it is like to have to take any sort of job just to survive.
Now I’ve had some wonderful teachers in my young life, those who really cared and made a difference. They were easily recognized in that they loved what they were doing and their enthusiasm and sincerity rubbed off on us kids.
I can’t for the life of me envision these very people waving signs in a picket line attempting to attract attention to themselves. They didn’t have time, they were doing what they loved.
Teachers: you are important, intelligent people. Find a way to get your concerns conveyed in a collegial, professional way. From where I sit, the optics are bad and the scene is eerily familiar to the little child who, forced to walk beside his mother but wanting to be carried, plunks himself down on the sidewalk and holds his mother hostage to his affected rants and cries. The most insidious part? It’s all being done “for the children.” Have a look in the mirror before heading out, and count your blessings.
Craig Drummond
Qualicum Beach