Miscommunication At Mine Not So Minor

As the world continues to grieve with the families of the twelve coal miners found dead after a mine explosion trapped them underground in West Virginia, the media has begun their inquisition into how initial news of their survival had been so tragically miscommunicated.

Ben Hatfield, president and CEO of the International Coal Group which owns the troubled Sago Mine told an early morning press conference that incorrect information regarding the lives of the miners had spread from the rescuers to the command center, resulting in families and friends being left to believe for hours their loved ones were found alive.

The decision to wait before confronting the overjoyous families with the horrible correction was made roughly 40 minutes after good word came out from the rescue team, a possibility officials were skeptical of finding from the beginning. Instead, three hours later, in the face of violence and confused chaos, Hatfield revealed the truth. "In the process of being cautious," he said, "we allowed the jubilation to go on longer than it should have."

In defense of Hatfield and company, it should be noted that miscommunications are nowadays common for presidents, especially during stressful periods where accuracy and honesty are essential.

Sometimes they utter things that mean the opposite, like "I Do," "I understand," or say, "Mission: Accomplished."


My deepest prayers and sincere condolences for those affected by this tragedy, the families of those who suffered losing their loved ones -- twice more than anyone ever should -- and a hopeful and speedy recovery to the one survivor of the horrendous accident.