"misunderstanding. 2. : a wrong action or statement proceeding from faulty judgment, inadequate knowledge, or inattention."
No, Bartons actions are not even close to dictionary definition.
He did not make a mistake in driving to a location. He did not make a mistake in getting belligerently hammered. He did not make a mistake getting behind the wheel. He did not make a mistake driving 100+mph.
These were all actions done with intention, knowing full well the potential consequences. There is no error or fault in judgement from a lack of knowledge. This is the end result of a near lifetime of action with minimum to no defintive consequences.
Three dui's. Three. This was a matter of mathematical eventuality. As Steve said above, prison is not punitive. Had Barton been in prison for his crimes, the other party would still be alive.
I've grown up with addiction on both sides *of* both sides of my family. I've buried several family and friends over it's self destructive nature. One that also can invite violence towards those that are in proximity to the addict.
I have and will always maintain this - your addiction gives you no right, excuse, justification or other to inflict physical and mental harm on anyone else beyond yourself. Most especially the former. Once you cross that line, as Kirk has done, the fabric of your life is at the mercy of those who would either take pity or deem it worthy to spare you.
Drunk driving and killing someone is one of the most ultimate selfishnesses I can think of. You had such little regard for the lives of others, what logic does it follow that others should regard yours?
Rhetorical, that last bit. I'm just making my closing point.
Good on you for finding sobriety and bless your journey and continued strength. Unfortunately, Kirks weakness has cost the life of another.
