ON EVERY OCCASION that the trade union movement has to take a strong stand against what they consider unfair and unjust treatment, there are always vociferous cries of “the unions are holding the country to ransom”.
Within the past 50 years, when employers and governments take their stand(s) with actions best suited for themselves but inimical to the interests of workers, muted voices and “sotto voce” grumblings are whispered from ear to ear, distant from the hearing of massa.
Such behaviour represents a society of a pre-1838 era.
If we are practising such behaviour, then we might as well go centuries back to 1670 whenBritish scientist and author John Ray in his collection of proverbs wrote: “Without pains, no gains”.
Today, this proverb in the form “no pains, no gains” is still the call of some physical exercise coaches.
As citizens of a maturing nation 50 years of age, we must not lose sight of our path to progress and the ultimate prize.
We must also understand that there will be no progress or gains without pain.
Sometimes we are even reminded by persons among us that “you cannot have an Easter without a Good Friday”.
– MICHAEL RAY