There was a time in life when folks would not receive a “free pass” for their indiscretions. Recently I was pounding away on the computer in the conference room at the firehouse when two of the younger guys walked in and sat at the table to shoot the breeze.
One of the guys was talking about a friend who cheated by hanging out with his girlfriend. When he confronted the friend, he admitted to his misdeeds and was forgiven. He got a “free pass.” In my younger days a similar situation would have ended with fists flying. That might not have been the correct resolution to the problem, but it did replace the “free pass.”
The question is how did the “free pass” develop? I blame it all on professional sports. Years ago the late George Steinbrenner, who I respected as a businessman, sportsman and Yankee team owner created the “free pass” which has lead to more problems then it has resolved.
In an era of paying athletes humongous salaries, there was a need to protect your investment. If the Dwight Gooden’s of the world were caught using drugs they received the “free pass.” Oh, as long as he admits to what he’s done and goes to rehab he’s welcome back. Oh, if he abuses his wife but goes for counseling, he’s welcome back.
Some of these athletes over the years have received multiple “free passes” for their lack of tact and judgment. Now it has crept into the world of entertainment, another venue for following and emulating poor celebrity judgment by impressionable youth. Lindsay Lohan is in jail. In today’s culture kids think – that’s cool, she’ll serve her time go to rehab, which is probably like a vacation and then receive the “free pass.”
Unfortunately this attitude of a wimpy slap on the wrist has permeated society.
Where as in the past rules were meant to be followed, today they are bent to meet a specific agenda or need.
How often in our own fire service are guys given the old “free pass” for not meeting call quota’s, not appearing at events, work details or drills or acting stupid at Class A uniform functions?
Also on The Fire PIO…
- PowerPoint not needed to make the Point – September 22, 2010
- Hyperlocal News is Growing – September 21, 2010
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