Irresistable Force vs Immovable Object

Since ancient times, philosophers have contemplated the question of what happens when an irresistible force is applied to an immovable object. I saw such an encounter last week when I attended a workshop in Bedford conducted by the State Board of Accounts for newly-elected clerk-treasurers.

The immovable object is the respect and esteem clerk-treasurers and all municipal officials have for the State Board of Accounts and the value they place on the training they provide. The irresistible force is the worry and concern generated by an approaching winter storm, and fear that one might not be able to safely return home.

As the workshop progressed through the morning hours, Charlie Pride of the State Board of Accounts was ably putting the new clerk-treasurers through the paces. The participants cheerfully perused the accounting manual as Charlie referenced particular sections. Just before lunch, the cell phones began to chime. A storm with sleet and freezing rain had hit Evansville, and was quickly racing north. Schools were closing.

As lunch was served, the pace of calls accelerated. Many in the audience were parents of school-age children, and were concerned about coping with schools closing. Immediately after lunch, Charlie decided to take a poll on whether the training should be continued. As the expression goes, the audience voted with their feet. By the time Charlie asked, half the group was gone, and others were leaving as he was attempting to tally the poll. In this case, the irresistible force displaced the immovable object.
- Tom Bredeweg