No Connection, No Empathy

Last week co-pilot Andreas Lubitz locked himself in the cockpit of a Germanwings airliner and flew it into the side of a French mountain, killing all aboard. Apparently the 27 year old Lubitz felt that his life was unraveling and desired as much attention as possible when he took himself out. There are numerous recent examples of individuals who, fearing that no one will notice their passing, leave behind as much carnage as possible in the wake of their suicides.

Humans have become detached. Many substitute electronic interaction for relationships. Despondent and unstable individuals are afraid that their death won’t be noticed unless they create an event. It feeds into the old axiom “If a tree falls in the forest and there is no one to hear it, does it make a sound?” This mindset along with a complete lack of empathy for their fellow human beings makes for a deadly combination. If one’s social interaction is limited to the on-line variety, they are left detached from the agony suffered by others.

Life in Island Park cannot be maintained in a virtual environment. Personal relationships and interactions are essential. So much of Yellowstone Country life is conducted outdoors; one is forced to deal with reality and crisis. Our lives in Island Park have much in common with those of our grandparents. On numerous occasions I have been reverently told stories of how a resident was introduced to the country by parents or grandparents.

Unfortunately, many have retreated to their keyboards and phones. Their self-worth is based on the number of “clicks”, “hits” and “likes” that they garner instead of the lives they lead, the skills they develop or the children they raise. It is a shame that celebrity is desired over actual achievement. In the mountains, celebrity leaves you cold and hungry.