RE: W.V. miner's story
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Craig,Well I agree they should not report unless they have all the facts, I disagree with blaming the media in this case. It wasnt the media that came in and told these families that the miners were found alive. They reported what was told to the families.
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I am mostly talking about the reporting to the world, not the families. The families, for the most part, were sort of responsible for finding out themselves, as they were the ones telling the media what they heard.
not once during the reports did I, 3000 miles away, hear a reporter say anything remotely close to:
"we are speculating. we have no proof yet. There is going to be a press conference at ________, and until that time, we are only reporting what we see and hear"
nope...they blatantly came out and said "it's a miracle, world...these men are all alive, except for one".
they even interviewed the lady who's relative was to believed to be the sole fatality. She said she was sad, but very happy for the families.
anyway John...I stand by my case. I am 3000 miles away. The only link I have to this story, is the media. They fed me false information. They did so in a confident manner. Call it a blunder, or call it a mistake. either way, they were wrong.
will the media learn to curb their enthusiasm for 'the scoop'? nope. They'll continue to chase ambulences as long as there are rubber neckers waiting to see the aftermath.
I will say this though...if the media ever sets up camp in my neighborhood, I'm going to have a field day with their incompetence.
in conclusion...I made my point. you know where I stand. it isnt a matter of my being right or wrong...its all opinion. I have mine. But I feel angry...mostly because the townspeople were completely stripped bare to the soul...they were given the best news they would ever hope to hear...their prayers were answered, as miraculous as they seemed...then, in an instant, their world was stripped bare of any hope of joy and promise....I am angry, and the only direction i can point that anger at, is at the media...because, not only were they the messenger, but they came bearing great news, only to realize...they were holding the scroll upside down.
an example:
"hear ye, hear ye...I am only the messenger, oh great one. Do not blame me if the message is filled with discontent. I only read to you what I see on this scroll. The scroll has been sealed by the emporer of Langsly, and has not been opened since his quil has laid hand and ink upon. The letter, if you will
"....on this day in 2006, the emperor of Langsly has declared the release of your children. they will not be put to death. they will be released and returned to you with absolutely no fear of execution"
the King was over-come with joy, and began a massive celebration, and ordered the release of all slaves. the land was filled with dance and song. The city became a virtual atmosphere of content, and love. No man, woman or child could be seen without a smile, or tear of joy.
But then, the messenger spoke up
"forgive me, oh great one...I was holding the letter upside down. it appears your family has been executed, and we will be attacking your land in...{gulp} 3 minutes".
how do you think the king would feel? Would he NOT blame the messenger?