In small-town life, tragedies seem to hurt more.

Everyone knows everyone and we all feel a bit closer to each other. So it’s normal that talk of the New Year’s Day truck crash that injured five teens has been an almost constant subject of talk over the last several days.

Those not close to the family are talking to seek updates on the condition of two teens still hospitalized. Parents of other teens are lamenting the situation while being thankful their own children are safe. And still others are seeking someone or something to blame.

Whether it’s directed at a hump in the road, a lack of city signage or foolish teenage behavior, placing blame at this point is as counterproductive as can be.

Rather than seeking to blame someone or second-guess their actions, wouldn’t we be a whole lot better off simply thinking about them all — perhaps even praying for them?

These kids, and that’s what they are, screwed up.

We don’t know the details of exactly how they screwed up, so it’s too early to be blaming alcohol, speeding or daredevil thrill seeking.

Let’s just acknowledge a mistake and realize that could have been almost any of us out there.

How many of us as teens did things we’ve later regretted?

How many of us as adults?

Let’s learn what we can from this mistake, but focus first on offering support and help to the hurting families.