Dear Editor:
They dwell among us, going about their daily lives as most people tend to do, raising families and helping out in the community were they can.
The mundane things that make life what it is. Facing the challenges and the joys we all face.
That is until the moment when it happens. The phone rings, the pager sounds and in an instant they change into who they have chosen to be. They leave family and friends in whatever moment they were.
Playing games, putting children to bed, sharing good times with friends, then out the door they go.
They have been summoned to their calling. To what they have chosen to do. You may even know some of them. You may wonder why they set everything aside and leave so suddenly.
They are collectively called First Responders. To some it is a paying job; to many it is a volunteer service they offer to the benefit of their community.
They are being called to attend a tragedy that many would have nightmares about for the rest of their lives. Be kind to them. Take time to thank them.
For this time of year is especially difficult. Be thankful there are those of such unspoken courage who are willing to set forth, and face whatever is before them. While their family and friends hope beyond hope for their safe return.
Kevin Deckert, North Thompson SAR first responder and Avola, B.C. resident