Ready, set, strike!

In French society, when the going gets rough, the French go on strike; it's a part of society that is as integral as bread, wine and cheese. Not being French, or particularly adept at following French politics, I have to assume that on some level it works - because it is a frequent and widespread habit here. Tomorrow, the SNCF, which is the train company that keeps the entire country moving, as well as most metro lines in many major cities (Paris in particular) will be going on strike in protest of President Nicholas Sarcozy's proposed reform of retirement benefits (if I've understood the news and newspapers correctly...). Apparently the major French energy and gas companies might follow suit - even the Paris Opera is striking! Teachers and other public employees are scheduled to strike next Tues., the 20th, if they so choose. This is all occurring amidst a student strike already in full swing against the privitization of French universities which began a few days ago. It's been interesting watching the build-up to this week, as it's been all over the media. Apparently there's concern that despite widespread participation, striker's concerns may still not be addressed. Who knows...all I know that come next Tuesday there's a good possibility that I'll find myself arriving to teach at empty schools!