How much would you sell out to keep your job?

[Cyrano]

With people like Tim Russert, Chris Matthews, and many Democratic politicians, we already know the answer. "Whatever it takes."

The poet e.e. cummings wrote a poem titled, "i sing of Olaf" which is well worth reading whether or not you like poetry.

http://www.americanpoems.com/poets/eecummings/11930

It's about a soldier who has had it and refuses to play by the rules. It contains lines like, "i will not kiss your fucking flag," and, "there is some shit i will not eat."

How much crap any of us are prepared to take depends on our personal circumstances. But most of us have a line we won't cross. Do you know yours?

[hobbit709]

1. Way back when I was in the Air Force(70-73)

when I was having my go-rounds with my CO he asked me why I couldn't shut up and do as I was told.
My response was that "I could but there's one little problem"
When he asked what, I Said "I don't like the taste of shit"

[MADem]

5. I had a similar line, and sadly, had to use it OFTEN

Integrity is like virginity. You only lose it once.

You do pay a price for refusing to be corrupted, though. I persevered, and eventually prospered, but I had to deal with some real assholes every now and again, and the stress was enormous, to put it mildly.

I was fortunate, though--after I got through the first challenge (and it was a biggie, though I really cannot go into it for a number of reasons, one of which is that it would bore you to tears, most likely) they were less inclined to screw with me. It still happened every now and again, but I wouldn't do any of that lying, cheating, stealing, or shaving around the margins. Not for anyone. And I said so.

As I moved up the ladder, I gained a reputation, and while some bosses avoided me like the plague, others sought me out simply because I played it straight and did my best to keep the regs in mind, which can be a great help to a boss who wants to do the right thing. I spent a big chunk of my career in "Flag requested" tours.

Now, I am retired, so I don't have to worry about that crap. It is a tough choice, though, and more so if you have people depending on you to bring home the bacon.

[Touchdown]

2. $14.6 Million.

I hate my job. I'm trapped.

[TallahasseeGrannie]

3. Well, I would put up with a lot of stuff

but as a teacher, there are certain teaching situations I wouldn't touch.

It's more a matter of age and stamina than anything else.

[melissinha]

4. nothing

I hate my job and am looking to get out.

Besides even if I did like a job I had, I wouldn't sell out... nope wouldn't do it.

[rock]

6. I have quit a job on the spot for principle

It was tough, but I'd do it again.