For anyone who has been involved in organisations, groups, clubs and committees and have struggled to be heard, read this story.
In the mid 1980’s automatic level crossings became a thing in Ireland with the Merrion Gates railway level crossing being one of the first to be controlled electronically on the Howth to Bray DART line. There have been fatalities on these automated crossings, but fortunately, not so many in the recent past. Back in the 1980’s they were new.
The story goes that on one very dull November morning about a mile from one such crossing Charlie (not his real name) was driving his Land Rover on the by road that had an automated level crossing. His two children were in the back of the car. Charlie had his own very profitable and successful building supplies business. He was well known and active in the community and very well liked. He was waved down by Joe (again not his real name). Joe was considered a loner and a bit odd. Joe was dressed in torn trousers, a grain sack bag converted to a poncho tied with brown baling twine and a shoddy looking hat. He was unshaven and looked dirty. He spoke with a slight stammer.
Charlie nervously stopped and wound down the window. Joe slurred out the almost inaudible words that the level crossing was not working. Be alert he advised. Charlie, nodded and thanked Joe, wound up the window and drove on.
Two minutes later Charlie drove across the railway track with no barrier to stop him. BANG!!
…It is thought Charlie and his children were killed instantly.
In summary, despite what Joe looked like or spoke like, he had the knowledge. His knowledge was correct. He imparted the knowledge. Charlie, despite being educated, successful and well liked, he did not listen to or heed Joe’s factual message. The question is, on that dull November morning, who had the bigger problem?
Knowledge and Fact doesn’t always appear the way you want it to. Be a real listener.
