It’s a dirty word nowadays. Using it signals that one is soft, lacking in rock-solid principles. Connotations of today might suggest a willingness to give in if not give up. You know, surrender to a presumed more powerful position.
The often maligned word is compromise.
It once was the tactic of choice employed to bring about movement when an unstoppable force met an immoveable object. Rather like a problem often found in the political arena.
In past years I seem to remember a time when the winner of an election would shake hands with those who lost and agree to disagree, but for the good of all citizens would learn to compromise on difficult compound and complex issues like health care, abortion, climate, immigration or even gun control.
Just in case we may have forgotten the meaning of compromise, I offer the following: Compromise is an agreement or a settlement of a dispute that is reached by each side making concessions. Interesting, the word “deal” is among the synonyms. Ring a bell?
CHARLIE STEPANEK
Concord