Compromise Is Not a Dirty Word

The person who stands for and fights for something as a matter of principle is often seen as a noble person of character and integrity. In fact, such a person may just be a stubborn old fool who makes it difficult for others to fulfil their mission. Have we forgotten the value of compromise?

A certain fellow — whom everyone agreed was a solid, good guy — wanted a fishing boat more than anything. Specifically, he had his eye on a center console with an Evinrude E-TEC G2 outboard motor.

His wife was not so keen on this, citing various and sundry financial obligations that, in her opinion, should be satisfied first. He listened with attentive thoughtfulness to his endearing, sensitive wife, but bought the boat anyway.

Later, sensing her displeasure, he said lamely, “I’ll tell you what: In the spirit of compromise, why don’t you name the boat? Okay, hon?” This was a concession he thought would please her.

It did.

When he later went to the dock to prepare the boat for its maiden voyage, he was startled to discover that his wife had named his new boat, his pride and joy, “FOR SALE.”

This compromise didn’t have the outcome for which he had hoped. And for many, compromise is as unpalatable as cold coffee, as unwelcome as...