Monday, February 16, 2009

Today's Fire - Video

Wow, it's been 16 days since my last post! ha

Here I sit with nothing to write. What's wrong with these fingers! Usually I can sit down and my hearts spills out of my fingertips. My mind is full of thoughts, but my thoughts should not be shared.

There was a big fire and I could see it right from my house. I don't know what was burning but it was burning a long time. A few fire engines were there keeping a lid on it.

This fire was burning a long time. Perhaps it was a planned fire. I didn't hear any fire engines previous to seeing the fire that's why I think it may have been a planned fire. I think firemen do that sometimes.

Doug was a volunteer fireman on the North Slope for many years. Because he is quiet and does not speak up for things that have been overlooked, he didn't get his recognition until years after the fact! That just made my blood boil! He didn't share with me that this had happened until I asked.

Doug VanWingerden
1981 - 1996
Tanker No. 9 --- Firefighter
In recognition and appreciation for 15 years of dedicated and loyal service with the Greater Prudhoe Bay Fire Department.

I want to mention all those ever faithful people - - husbands, wives, sisters, brothers, parents, grandparents, daughters, sons, firefighters, pastors, cleaners, care givers.... and on and on. People like Doug who have been there year after year, never paid, overlooked, and many times forgotten. Quiet and unassuming they certainly are not receiving the recognition and care that they deserve but do not expect.

For you is this forever faithful thought: God never, ever forgets and He will reward those that are faithful - maybe not in this world, but for sure it will be done someday.

Thank you Dougie, you are the best firefighter I know!

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Galations 5.

6 comments:

Constance said...

One of his spiritual gifts must be service. Those people tend to work behind the scenes and are willing to do whatever job is asked of them. Our good friend Randy is that same way!

I like to serve but unfortunately, I am not always so humble about it!
Ha Ha!
Connie

DeLong House said...

It was a storage unit place that was burning. Someone's boat and truck were destroyed in the fire. It was on the news last night.
I can't believe that you could see it that good right from your house!! Front row seating for what ever is happening in your community! :)

elizabeth embracing life said...

Sometimes I could write for days with what I believe is important and will inspire the hearts of many, other days I can hardly write my dog spot and I don't even have a dog. Either way, keep writing as it is always good for the soul, and others who can say...ah yes..you too eh?

Faith said...

This was just awesome!!

YOur hubby must have acts of service as his love language!

Susannah said...

Hey, we've missed you Connie Marie! Funny, I can literally smell the smoke. Weird.

Your husband deserves praise and thanks for his selfless service with the fire department. Blessings to him! :~D

Joy said...

Glad to see you back. I get the writer block as well as you can see by loooong absences. LOL