I am glad that the Chilean miners were rescued before Christmas. It was heartwarming to see each miner brought up to greet and hug their waiting loved ones for the first time in over 2 months. It was gripping to watch Yonni Barrios come out of that hole in the ground, slowly turn, and see...
his mistress. His expression was hard to decipher as he accepted her hugs. Was he relieved that his wife wasn't there with a pair of shears? Was he sad to see confirmation that he was getting a divorce? Was his mistress the one he was hoping to see? Was he actually planning on dumping her right before the accident? I suspect we will hear more about that little Chilean drama.
I think Yonni will do quite well, though; even if his wife gets the house. It looks like those miners could be set for awhile and maybe for life. They have received many gifts and are set to get endorsement deals, movie and book contracts, compensation from the government and the owners of the mine. Yonni might get on a TV court drama - or be the next Bachelor.
It seems to me that the miners will be heavily rewarded for participating in a workplace accident. I'm not saying they shouldn't be compensated, but they could potentially walk away with fortunes. They are celebrities - brave survivors. They will be more than compensated. I think this kind of thing happens a lot these days. People are in a disaster, an accident, or a weird incident in which they grab two beers and slide down the emergency chute; and suddenly they are celebrities. Interviews, books, websites, viral videos pave the path to fame and fortune.
Couldn't this encourage reckless or careless behavior at work?
"Hey, let's goof around and maybe we'll cause a spectacular accident that makes us all rich! That is, all of us who survive."
I think if you work in a dangerous or potentially dangerous industrial setting, you should keep an eye on your co-workers. Watch out for those who seemed bored with life and for those who are continually cash-strapped. They may decide to start something.
Just remember, not EVERY disaster works out for the best.
