According to the popular belief, reflected in the policy makers' bills, I'm sitting on the cushiest job in the world. I have it so good that not only I'm not entitled to better working conditions, but I’m to lose pay increase, sick days and grid advancement too. All the while, I'm supposed to keep up my positive attitude and enthusiasm for working with children, and for implementing, at times, unreasonable initiatives of the policy makers!
We teachers are such undervalued population! For every one person who says I respect teachers, there are hundreds who don’t see past the two months off.
Once I told an envious “Why don't you quit your job and become a teacher?"
"Oh no,” she said in horror, "I couldn't possibly be with children all day!"
"Well then, give some credit to those who can and are!” My curt reply got her off the envy waggon fast!
Eventually, for the policy makers, it all comes down to unrealistic promises to voters and of course - money. Mind you, it's seldom their skin and money - always ours.
In comparison to thousands and thousands of people, we are still in a decent place. However, until when can we find solace in having a job when we are losing our rights, dignity and whatever we worked and planned for?
There is a school of thought that claims being alive does not mean living! Perhaps that's why in many countries they pull the plug on the brain-dead.
The integrity of our job is in danger! Settling for six days sick leave in an environment where germs grow like mushroom!
I suppose, when the job includes dusting, cleaning, washing, wiping nose, bending down to fasten shoe laces, being yelled at, barfed at or even kicked, you can't expect respect. Sometimes, I wonder how parents bring themselves to leave their children in our care - after all, according to many, we are not worth much!
Well, this morning I say let's throw gratitude out the window! What is a job without respect, compassion and fulfilment. Let's all moan and groan as per articles in my psychology magazines, negative feelings bind people together better than positive ones.
I'm sure Plato, Socrates and Aristotle are all turning and tossing in their grave in our favour!
I must say though, I’m grateful I live in a country where they cannot put me in jail for speaking my mind today!
Have a binding day, everyone!
Great blog today Lili. Did you see the ad on tv sponsored by ETFO about how wonderful teachers are? That made me feel appreciated. Good job we're winding down and the money isn't as cruical for us. Kirsten
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