Thanskgiving week has arrived with a swift blast of cold air, reminding us that winter is all but here. During this week of giving thanks, I would like to stop and say thank you to all the firefighters around the world. I understand the sacrifices that everyone makes to serve as a firefighter. From missing family functions, to no sleep, dealing with exhaustion, to personal injury or death we all have chosen to serve our communities 24-7-365.
In giving thanks to everyone, let’s review what Thanksgiving is all about. On Nov. 26, 1789, George Washington proclaimed Thanksgiving "as a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favours of Almighty God."
We should all show our grateful hearts during this week to acknowledge those who have given of themselves so much. Here are just a few:
Family First: Without our families we are nothing. Without their support, we may not be firefighters at all. Without husband, wives, or parents to fill-in while we are helping others, our families would suffer at a deeper cost. Make sure to call your mom, dad, sister, or brother and tell them how much you love them and appreciate their support.
Crew Next: Our fire department is like an extended family. Many of you spend one-third or more of your life with them. From flour bombs over the bathroom stall to the birth of a child, they are there. During this week, we should take the time to express how much we are thankful for them. I know what you're saying, "do not get to sentimental." However, by saying “thanks” will go a long way.
Department Leadership: Without someone steering the ship where would it end up? We may not agree with outr chief officers, but we all should show them respect. During this week of Thanksgiving we should show up and send out a huge "thank you, Chief." The hours of worrying over budgets, staffing, and making city hall happy sometimes go over looked. By going out of our way to give them a thank you will help them realize that we do understand and support them.
Now, time for the Views from the Jumpseat to say thanks. Thank you to my other family, the one at Firehouse for allowing me to get involved.
This has been an amazing ride here on Firehouse.com. Since 2009 I have been blogging and bringing more “Views” from the backseat to the forefront. Saying thank you would not even begin to be enough for choosing to read my blog. The feedback, tweets, and e-mails have been simply amazing. Therefore, here is your huge THANK YOU for taking time out of your day to spend some time in the Jumpseat!
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
