Breaking through the crust

I had another post idea going today, but that was on the negative side and something happened at work that took off in a different direction. Perhaps not as much as policemen or firemen, but to some extent in the news business you develop something of a crust and a sense of black humor to get you past the tougher stories. Then every once in a while a story breaks through that crust and gets to you. It wasn't really fair, but three of them ganged up on me tonight. I am going to share them rather than try to rewrite or paraphrase what they are about. Enjoy one or two or all three. Or none. Up to you.

The first is about a Japanese American man who fought in World War II in the American Army despite the fact that many of his relatives were being held in an internment camp in Wyoming. Last week he was awarded a medal posthumously. Here's his story.

Suicide is a huge problem in Alaska, particularly among teens and Natives. Even Congress has taken notice. This story is about a high school senior who as a 5-year-old saw her uncle take his own life. As recently as last year another close friend of hers did the same. But this girl has begun her own fight to battle this epidemic and it has received the attention of important people. This is her story. One quote from her was particularly compelling: "It's just always been around me," Baldwin said, "It's always been an option."


And now for my favorite. A fellow I know wrote this reminiscence of time with his father in the Alaska wilds, a time I only wish I could have known.

One quote in it in particular spoke to me: "If you are looking for an experience that will temper your vanity, this is it. There's no one to impress when you're alone on the trap line."