First Principles

If there is one fundamental principle, I think everyone should at least consider, it is this. If the government, local or national, tries to do something, it will most likely, suck. And quite likely, suck beyong the telling. So smart, resourceful, industrious, self-reliant people, should never use any kind of public service. If you do, be prepared to suffer the consequences.

Yesterday, I disregarded this rule, and suffered as a result. I'm just back from Portugal with a broken toe, so running and any number of other exercises are out, so I decide to go for a swim to the council run pool. BIG mistake.

I walk in the place and the receptionist is too busy talking to her friend to do her job, so I say (in a loudish voice) "two to swim" she looks annoyed, and punches away at a computer, whilst still talking to the friend and not making eye contact, and says "Nine pounds"

So, surly attitude, and quite a lot for a subsidised pool, but fuck it, I need the exercise, so in I go.

They have a mixed changing room full of pikeys ! Come on, I want the male changing, but anyway, I go in a cubicle and get changed. I found the adult pool, and it's happily empty. I'm just about to get in, when this kid about 18, screams at me "Out" real aggressive, 'cos you know, he has the "whistle of authority" around his neck and all.

This was a serious mistake on his part. "Who the hell do you think you're talking to" says I in a still more aggressive voice, him, (shrinking now) "I was only doing what I was told, we have four staff off sick, so the adult pool is closed, er" he says, backing away and stuttering.

So, this "public service" I'm forced to fund through my council tax, is:

- expensive
- surly
- pikey
- thoughtless (two adults would want the adult pool, tell me this if you are the receptionist)
- poorly staffed, (four young kids sick on Sunday - gotta be hungover)
- aggressive

So, as a first principle, don't rely on the government. Rely on yourself and private companies with legally enforceable contracts.