Lesson of the Coal Mines

I listen to NPR most mornings and afternoon, coming to and from work. This afternoon I heard a report from Youth Radio about a young Kentuckian who grew up in coal country. She has grow up to be a vocal opponent of coal mining industry and has lost contact with her older brother because of it. But one thing she says is that no matter which side of mining you fall on, when there is a tragedy like what happened at the Upper Big Branch mine brings people together. She commented that her Facebook page contained message of sorrow and prayers for the miners, their families, and rescuers.

What I take away from is this. Whatever cause you choose, take your side. Decide if you are going to be on the side of the mining company, the miner unions, or the environmentalists. People should stand for something. But whatever your stand, don't lose sight of the people at the heart of the cause. No matter which side you are on, don't put it above the people, don't put it above your family.

I don't claim to know a thing about the mining issues...just what I have heard on sporatic news reports...I do know that I am sad for the loss of the family of this young lady not to the mine, but because the cause became greater than family.