Underestimating Heroes

Many little people idolize firefighters and dream of becoming one of America’s bravest civil servants. Today, our little man, Dylan, was given the grand tour of our local fire station. He was given a hat and coloring pages and got to climb on several trucks. He even got to make some of the siren sounds by pressing the horn. Though he was his usual somber and sedate self, he was overjoyed with the experience.

On the other hand,  I was most impressed.

I always figured fire fighters were awesomely brave and altruistic, but I found out some things that make me even more respectful of these people. Every day, they train and go over equipment manuals and procedures. Each manual is over three inches thick. Every month, they go through a chapter of information. At regular intervals, they are tested to re-certify.

I was amazed at the number of buttons, levers, and specialized equipment in and on the outside of the firetrucks. Each person in the station must know the exact purpose of each item. And I swear! I’ll bet there were close to a bajillion buttons on the ceiling alone! The muscle memory necessary to make the fire engine move appropriately would have been beyond my capabilities at any stage of my life. And that’s not even considering my less than stellar driving abilities!

Then comes the day to day chores that must be performed, the purposes of which I never considered. I always thought firefighters hung out cleaning their trucks because they were really into clean vehicles! Who knew there are some serious reasons for their cleaning frenzies?!?

Every piece of equipment must be inspected for scrapes, holes, and things that would cause a malfunction during a crisis. I learned that every piece of equipment must be cleaned to remove filth, debris, and toxins from each piece of apparel and equipment. Things like helmets are not only scrubbed, they are waxed to help repel the carcinogens. And I thought the perpetual cleaning of my white floors was tedious! I’ll think twice before I complain again!

Then, there is the emotional trauma that must be devastating, the determination to work in the most dangerous situations that takes courage beyond measure, and persistence to keep on working no matter what. These people are worthy to be called today’s heroes.

So what is today’s take away? Like last year’s rudimentary realization of what people in the medical field must endure, I will learn to appreciate others more. And more importantly, pray more. Here is my prayer for them all.

The Lord will keep you from all harm – He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over you coming and going both now and forevermore. Psalm 121:7,8

Blessings KB