Apology to Herstines

Trains Magazine General Discussion
1

Hi folks.
Back on Dec 8th, a thread concerning the death of Jody Herstine, titled “Railroad Accident” was posted.

Later in the thread, I made a comment in a reply that, taken out of context, would seem to say I thought Jody’s family wouldn’t care about any other railroad workers death, and would be concerned only with the death of Jody.

Jody’s sister has e-mailed me, expressing the fact that Jodys family was hurt and upset by my comment, and that the death of any railroader has a impact on them.

After re-reading what I wrote, I can see where what was written may seem to justify their concern.

Because what I wrote was in a public forum, I feel they should have a public apology.

In no way was I attempting to imply that Jody’s survivors were in any way callous or un-caring, nor was I trying to make it seem as if they didnt care about the death of any railroader.

What I was trying to get across was that, while remote controled switches and locomotives may be a national issue, with many different viewpoints, to Jody’s family, this was a very personal issue, with very personal and painful results.

If anything I wrote then, or now, has in any way hurt them, then I offer my deepest sympathies for their loss, and a most sincere apology for my comments.

Edward M Blysard
Switchman, PTRA

2

They say it takes a big man to realize he was mistaken, and it takes a bigger man to admit it.

Thanks for the apology to the Herstine family, Ed. I’m sure most of us understood that your comments were not in any way ment to be taken personally and were not ment to be hurtfull.

I hope you were able to resolve this with the family amicably , Vic.

3

Ed, if you have made only this single error in all of your 1800 some odd posts, you are a man able to bridle his tongue (typing finger(s)).

For those inclined to be Bible readers, you will, perhaps, be interested in James 1:19; 1:26 and 3:2-6. Ed, if you do elect to read those passages, you will have reaffirmed to you what Vic said above.

Because they read the original thread, I presume they will read this one, also. I wi***o extend my condolances even though no words can replace their loss.

Bless you, Ed.

4

Ed
If my opinion of you could get any better, it just did.

I hope no one takes anything said (typed) in these forums too personally. I know from personal experience that when it gets out of control, things said in jest still hurt. But, it is OK to have a little fun, as long as everybody has fun.

5

My sympathy to the family.

My admiration to Ed.

I have eaten crow several times in the forums. It never taste good and never will. But sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do.

I sincerely hope all works out here. It is so easy to offend but not mean to do so.

Thanks Kenno for the Bible verses. I will read them in a minute, and urge anyone reading this thread to do so also.

Time heals all wounds with a little help from Almighty God.

Have a blessed day.

6

Tastefully done Ed. Nice job. I don’t think of you as one to trample on others feelings, particularly real ones (pride, ego not included) or someone who’s suffered a tragedy.

Dan

7

No one can say you are not a man who will admit to mistakes Ed. If only there were more like you in this world, then maybe it would be a better place. Well done.

8

Ed, class act guy, class act!