An inquiring mind asked me and wants to know: What are the biggest challenges you have faced in your professional life?
I truly love knowing that I am in a position to be able to help people when they need it the most. It may not always be in the most spectacular way... extricating a critical accident patient, pulling someone from a smoky fire, or resuscitating a victim in cardiac arrest. Many times, it's being there when someones world has suddenly turned upside down, and they need a calming voice to reassure them that, despite the current situation, I (we) are there to help them. Being able to provide a shoulder to cry on when tragedy strikes their loved one. Showing compassion and understanding, when they themselves can't even begin to understand what is happening to them. It is during these times that I believe the true character of a firefighter is most evident to the people we serve.
But the hardest or least enjoyable part of the job is the tragic effects of a bad situation or event that I strive to prevent or make better... and sometimes can't. No matter how much experience I have, no matter how much training, resources or tools of the trade I have... sometimes it's just not enough. Despite my best efforts, not being able to avert or alleviate people's suffering...
Trying to explain to the woman who couldn't awaken her husband of 40+ years, that he died in his sleep sometime during the night.
Having to see the incredible grief in the eyes of the teen whose parent lay dead in the front seat of the car they were just riding in.
Seeing the small child in her pajamas, clinging to the warm blanket we just wrapped her up in, as she stares at the smoldering remains of her home that burned to the ground.All too often, I can't help but see the faces of those I love in the faces of the people we are trying to help, as I pray to God that my family and/or close friends will never be placed in that situation. Yeah, the tragic calls stand out the most because the emotions they evoke.
Mix all of the above with the fact that I still after all these years, cannot manage to balance my professional and a personal life. Kids and close friends... I can handle and manage somewhat, but any thing more such as a personal relationship ... NOT A CHANCE IN HELL! :)
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captain
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