This is a great reminder of how many people we depend on for our communities to thrive. As a parent with young children, I've felt spread too thin to serve in this capacity myself, though your essay makes me want to do it now that I have more flexibility. On a different note, I believe that teachers are often first responders in this way, only not to emergencies so much as the daily nurturing that our children and young adults need. I have always appreciated your interest in telling those stories, too. You're good at making people feel valued, Bob. We need more of that in the world.
Our daughter and her spouse are both volunteer firefighters/EMT's. They put in many hours training, and even more time responding to calls. Some are simple, but many are not. And they have witnessed many heartbreaking events. I am so very proud of them!
Evocative and moving column, Bob. I could see so many of these scenes through your eyes. Thanks for covering these stories and then telling them in such a compassionate way.
You honor them with your vivid and powerful stories, Bob. And having recently benefited from our community's own first responders, I second your call to show them a little love.
This is a great reminder of how many people we depend on for our communities to thrive. As a parent with young children, I've felt spread too thin to serve in this capacity myself, though your essay makes me want to do it now that I have more flexibility. On a different note, I believe that teachers are often first responders in this way, only not to emergencies so much as the daily nurturing that our children and young adults need. I have always appreciated your interest in telling those stories, too. You're good at making people feel valued, Bob. We need more of that in the world.
Our daughter and her spouse are both volunteer firefighters/EMT's. They put in many hours training, and even more time responding to calls. Some are simple, but many are not. And they have witnessed many heartbreaking events. I am so very proud of them!
Evocative and moving column, Bob. I could see so many of these scenes through your eyes. Thanks for covering these stories and then telling them in such a compassionate way.
You honor them with your vivid and powerful stories, Bob. And having recently benefited from our community's own first responders, I second your call to show them a little love.
Thank you for sharing more than what usually read in print.