csmith said:
I got into this business to make money, have a lot of time off, see places, and get out early.
That Captain is perhaps the basic difference between us. I got into this business because I love airplanes and most of the people who fly them. When I first did it, I had no idea how much money I would make, did not care about how much time I would have off (I enjoyed being at work) and did not know what places I would wind up seeing. It really didn't matter much as long as I was doing what I love to do. That is an immense difference from your perspective.
As it turned out, I was very, very lucky. I got to fly some wonderful machines, made more money than my wildest dreams, met some of the greatest people on the face of the planet, was fortunate to fly all over every Continent except (far) Asia and Australia, and never once sat in the cokpit of an airliner whose empennage I could see while in flight. There have been up's and down's and furloughs and strikes, riches and poverty, and way too much politics. All in all, it's been one hel1 of a ride. I'd do it again in a heartbeat and can't remember even one day that I wanted to get out early.
I played by the rules, and now others want to change them at my expense. That's fine. I will fight them on it, however, and I will call them on it when they claim it is more fair or just their way--aka the "high road".
I think I've played by "the rules" too and I've also been stepped on by people that didn't. I really don't want to change them, certainly not all by myself, but I'm way past the simple and obedient acceptance of rules made by others for their benefit at my expense.
We are having this "dispute" because you believe that I do want to change the rulse and I believe that your group has already done that, at my expense and that of my fellows. Like you, I will fight for what I believe with anyone at all and never submit to intimidation or coercion. I do not accuse you personally of either, but I do accuse our union. I am just as determined to change that as you appear willing to prevent me. I am truly sorry it is that way, but it is.
Conflict between two people usually arises because they are alike and their personalities butt heads. I really don't care to start another long thread with you and your 3 part posts. Suffice to say, I see where you are coming from, and it ain't the high road.
Unfortunately, we seem to belong to a mutual admiration society. Since I don't know you I really can't tell how much we are "alike" but if what you write is the indicator, the similarities are limited. I'll not convince you of anything, your mind is made up and there is nothing I can do about it. My mind is still open however. If and when you come up with a better idea, I'm still willing to listen. However, as long as you believe that listening equates to doing things your way, never the twain shall meet.
Butting heads is a waste of time. Dialogue could lead to a mutually satisfactory solution (even if we shout sometimes). I can't force you to have dialogue and you obviously don't want any. That's up to you.
What happens when an irresistible force meets an immovable object?
Fly Safe.