Excellent post, Freedom!
RF, forgive me for being a "gadfly" and "goading" you into responding....

(it's a private joke from another thread) but we're not mind-readers so thanks for
posting your thoughts...
Yes, it's a matter of pride--
self respect, to be exact. The "going down" scenario was started by you, remember. Others were just answering the question as you posed it. The company can choose to settle fairly with the pilots anytime they have had enough of the labor dispute being a distraction. I believe most think the pilots will get the contract they fight for.
I disagree that the strategy isn't working. It all reminds me of when the NJ pilots were at the table. As many have said, management uses the plays right out of the union-busting textbook...

But hey, the Fight IS ON! That's much closer to a contract than Options pilots were last year.
I'm positive that the leadership welcomes involvement by the pilots. Those who are adversely affected by the stress of negotiations should join the fight and do everything they can to help convince the company that it is best to hammer out a contract--sooner, rather than later. Things always go better when there are written rules for everyone to follow and the workforce is treated respectfully and compensated appropriately.
A challenge to the group (mentioned by RF) that doesn't agree Options pilots should follow the example of those who raised the bar before them: Give it your best effort--100%--for the next 4 months. Do all that your leadership asks of you. Then, if you have seen no progress, have a brainstorming session with your pilot group and present
your ideas on how better to achieve the industry standard contract y'all deserve.
Best wishes, NJW
IT IS HARD TO ACHIEVE A STANDING OVATION UNLESS EVERYONE STANDS AT THE SAME TIME