We're all affected by tragedy

We've all probably heard the media bashers talk on and on about how journalists are uncaring, out to make a name for themselves regardless of who they run over, and that they don't recognize that real people are involved in the stories they cover.

In some cases - and I personally know of some - that's a true accusation. Without a doubt, though, those kind of people in the newspaper business are few and far between.

Yes, good journalists have to do tough stories and sometimes people you know and have admired are the subject of those unflattering stories.

You still do your job in a professional manner, be fair and accurate. It should never be personal.

The same goals are there when you come across stories involving personal tragedy. Don't let anyone kid you, but reporters - at least the good ones - are affected by those kinds of stories. Through experience, you learn to tuck away your emotions of the moment and do the job.

Those stories stay with you a while, though. And, yes, you do pause afterward and soak in what you've just seen.

One of those occasions was Thursday during a horrible traffic accident near the north end of Patton Island bridge in Florence. A 17-year-old girl was killed. The 5-year-old in her vehicle is still clinging to life in a Huntsville hospital.

Like all fatal accidents, this was a tragic event to say the least. It always seems particularly tragic when a young person's life is taken. The circumstances of this teen's life make the story even more gripping.

Ashlee Austin did not grow up in an ideal environment. She's a product of a broken home and did not have computers, the latest fashions and a fancy car at her fingertips. Her background, dedication and work ethic made her the kind of person you always root for to succeed.

She graduated from Hatton High School two weeks ago. Through her hard work and desire to make a better life, she earned a scholarship to an automotive school in Nashville. She was almost certainly on track to become a success and to have a better quality of life.

Within seconds, the promise of a bright future vanished. A tractor trailer crashed into her Honda Accord and suddenly the girl who was filled with hope and a promise of a better tomorrow was gone.

There's no need to wonder why. It happened and it can't be reversed.

Maybe, just maybe, this tragedy will cause motorists to be more careful or make us appreciate our children a little more.

One thing is certain: We never know about tomorrow.

Mike Goens can be reached at 740-5740 or mike.goens@TimesDaily.com.