By choice, I have been unplugged from the electronic world for more than two weeks now. Closed Facebook, deleted FI and the union board from the favorites list, stopped reading on the internet (it's amazing how long the ipad battery lasts now), watched only sports on TV, read books instead of the newspaper. It was a refreshing change.
When I dipped my toe back in this morning, imagine my horror to discover my old colleague stirring the drink yet again. As I've said here before, yes G4Dude really is a G550/450 guy, yes I know who he is, but no, we don't all agree with him.
I know he can be over-the-top. But given the frequent displays of resentment, vitriol, disdain, and outright hate shown toward former NJI on the boards and in person, I can understand his frustration bubbling over from time to time. Witness several of the comments above.
He's entitled to express his opinion as are you (well, for at least a couple more years). But did any of you ever think a better approach might be to start a PM conversation and exchange ideas, questions, or opinions in a calm and respectful manner? How about a phone call to explain why this is no longer Richie's Netjets and we must all hang together or we surely will hang separately? In my best Jesse Jackson imitation: "Educate instead of distribute hate."
Instead, many dismiss him as an idiot, call him more fanciful names, insult his parentage, and the like. Yeah, THAT'S a sure way to build unity. Substitute ALL of the former NJI here and you begin to understand why NJASAP puts the FUN in dysfunctional.
I can tell you that there are some that believe exactly as the Dude does, including the guy I was paired with this tour. But there many former NJI who will strongly embrace the notion of a hard line and many more that will at least support a strike should it come to that. Painting with a broad brush is always messy.
As for me personally, my decidedly better half has a strike star on her pilot wings so I FULLY understand the implications of what is about to happen. In a worst case scenario, I will be well-prepared and could find plenty of ways to enjoy some extra time at home.
Thankfully, that prospect is at least 18-24 months away and provides time better spent discussing rather than shouting.
Speaking of thanks, best wishes to all of you, namecallers and shouters included, for a Happy Thanksgiving wherever this stupid industry may find you today.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I am once again unplugging my electronic umbilical cord.