Not many smiley faces in the newspaper biz these days as it tries to re-digitize itself.  Even a compelling confession by New York Times columnist David Carr makes one shiver.

Consider this sliver of Carr from the July 20 Sunday New York Times magazine:

"Here is what I deserved: hepatitis C, federal prison time, H.I.V., a cold park bench, an early, addled death.

"Here is what I got: the smart, pretty wife, the three lovely children, the job that impresses.

"Here is what I remember about how That Guy became This Guy: not much. But my version of events is worth knowing, if for no other reason than I was there."

His memoir is titled, "The Night of the Gun." You may never have heard of Carr, and you may not ever want to hear any more about him.

But his thorny tale of multiple addictions, abuse of women and endangerment of his children has too many mirror images for you not to consider it and reconsider the nature of those around you.

(You can find more details on various Internet sites. The following one is the "official" book site http://www.nightofthegun.com/ )