The Gift

Some, not all have been given a gift worth much more than anything that comes from a store. I am one of those fortunates. Without asking, wishing for or even realizing I had it until well into my adulthood the ability to work as a firefighter/EMT was bestowed upon me. This was the first gift, the next came with a little work. I had to put those gifts into action, first by learning, then by finding a place to put this gift to use. Fortunately for me, that place is The Providence Fire Department.

Through all the contractual squabbles, petty rivalries between firefighters and rescue people and relentless calls, I can’t think of anything I would rather have. Friendships with hundreds of people have been made possible because of this gift, doctors, nurses, patients, security, cops, teachers…the list is long. A whole world is open to me because of what I do. Who I am opens that world even further, and who I am is a direct result of the gift that was given to me.

People I don’t know call 911 and wait, their anxiety high, fear, uncertainty and despair wait for me to show up. That I can respond, and alleviate some of that is truly a miracle, one I don’t take lightly. It is something worth remembering during the toughest shifts. However bad we have it, the people on the other end of the phone usually have it worse. And I help them. For that opportunity I am thankful.

This is the season for giving. For all the giving I do, I honestly believe  I have received far more. So thank you, and Merry Christmas to you all!