Negotiation

The temperature is rising in the government and teachers’ camps as the proposed UK public service strike approaches on Wednesday. The one mantra being repeated by both sides is, ‘let’s get round the table and negotiate’. Negotiation is a nice cosy word, and thrown around carelessly. I think both sides need to look at the definition of the word. Teachers are our main means of instructing our children, and should know the meaning. Union leaders are protecting their own positions as they call for negotiations. The government say they will not move, and in fact may pull the present offer ‘off the table’. At least we all know the government position (like it or not).

Unfortunately, the thing that is NOT happening is negotiation. Each side wants to prove something, and has their own agenda. There is NO interest in ‘give and take’ to find a solution. There is only one show in town, and it’s mine, seems to be the theme.

Sometimes we just can’t negotiate. The teachers are a case in point, but they are not alone. We do it all the time. We do it with God when we try to tell Him how we want things to be done, and more importantly, what we will NOT agree to do. God is sovereign, and is not for turning. We cannot talk our way out of His will, no matter how eloquent we are, and how good with fancy words. Jonah tried it in the Old Testament, and we all know where he ended up for his troubles!

Wait a minute. If God is not for negotiating with, and the unions and Government are not for turning, is it fair to think our earthly friends also think they are some kind of gods (small ‘g’), and above the moral law that we all depend on? So, please no more false talk about negotiating when we all know it’s not meant. For my own part, I expect more from the teachers, who are in a position of respect and authority to the children and young adults they have in their charge. My opinion is not based on the teachers case for better pensions, but on their influence, and position in the community. I expect more from them, than I do from all the other public service workers. I expect better. Am I being unreasonable, or are the teachers being responsible?