I Just Don't Get It by Pattie H "Why me? What did I do to deserve this? I worked hard all my life, for what?! Sometimes I wonder if I'm in the wrong profession. Early retirement sounds really, really good some days. I mean - we're all adults here or at least that's what I thought. That's what I assumed. Then again Dad always said, 'Son, never assume because...' Well, you know. Boy was he ever right! Once in a while I can understand, but every shift? Doesn't he ever grow tired of it?! I know I do and the rest of the crew - well, they're just as bad sometimes! They either ignore it or they egg him on. That I suppose is what I really don't understand. If I were him I don't think I'd take it. Why does he? Is something wrong with him? Maybe he likes it? No, I've seen that look in his eyes. He hates it. Why doesn't he try and stop it? Sure, an occasional prank relieves the stress of the job, but this is all out war. I could step in but I'm not sure if I should. He really isn't doing anything harmful and I haven't gotten a complaint from the 'victim'. Should I wait? Should I stop it now? Lord help me I just don't know what to do! They don't prepare you for this in Captain's training that's for darn sure. The paperwork and the tactical stuff - yeah, but not this interpersonal relations stuff. It's not in the manual. I've looked! Maybe they should add some sort of psychological training? Hey! I could mention it to the Chief! Yeah, maybe I... No wait, he'd just think I couldn't keep my men under control, couldn't handle my job. I have enough problems with him already! I'm the boss and I need to figure this out on my own. On my own! Boy this is harder than I thought. I just don't get it!" |