Sacrifices

Two things plague my thoughts today. Both involve the passing of someone adored by many. Locally, we lost a man who was a brother to some a hero to others. Deaths of any kind are grievously painful, unexpected deaths even worse. I think all would agree when a death occurs as a result of someone attempting to save the life of another, it is especially tragic. Our community has lost a firefighter. Obviously not all of us in the community had met him, or knew him personally. But we all suffer the loss. my hope is that his family (at home and his Fire House) take comfort in knowing that his bravery and years of service to his community, protecting us, our homes, our children has not gone unnoticed. I, for one, truly appreciate all of our fire fighters and other First Responders. Theirs is a job I know I couldn't perform. Yet they do with such grace and humility we often forget to recognize their role in our lives. We forget the sacrifice they make every time they respond to a call. 

The sacrifice isn't limited to their physical well being. I can't imagine the toll it takes on them emotionally. Their bond is a powerful one. Losing one of their own, someone that they have shared both triumphs and tragedies, must be excruciating. Also, responding to a call were lives of been lost.

We have lost children in separate fires recently. generally when I hear of such events I grieve for the families, mention them in my prayers. I never thought to include the first responders. Their motive for being a Fire Fighter, Paramedic, etc is to save lives. The personal risk they take to do so shows their commitment and compassion. The pain in seeing a small body that you can not save must be unbearable, especially for those with children of their own. 

I talk a lot about bullies, victims, bystanders and allies. These men and women are absolute allies. It is my goal to keep that in mind and never take them for granted.