We are in this together. A note to fire families this 25th Anniversary of 9/11.

25th Anniversary.
The Grove FD ladder truck holds the flag we honor as we remember the tragedy of 9/11
Photo by Peggy Steed on 9/11/26.


 Today is one of those days that makes me sit on edge, knowing that the first responders in my life would run to a scene of terror, not away from it.

Being a fire wife and a fire mom is not easy on a daily basis. Trust their training is what we tell ourselves. Fire wife, fire mom, fire daughter, and fire sister-in-law are proud titles I get to wear. And am I proud of them!
"It’s in God’s hands," others will say. But that doesn’t ease the knowing as they head out to save others, knowing that harm could come their way every day, any day. Any missed step.
The weight of this life isn’t found in a single, dramatic moment; it’s in the quiet spaces. It’s in the empty chair at the dinner table, the long shifts where the clock seems to stop, and the silent prayers whispered into the dark. We learn to hold our breath until the front door clicks open, or until that "I'm okay" text finally lights up our screens. We build our lives around long hours and unpredictable schedules, holding down the fort while they hold the line out in the world. 
People see the brave uniforms and the sirens, but they don't always see the families standing steadfast in the shadows. They don't see the intentional grace it takes to keep a home peaceful when the outside world is chaotic. 
I am sincerely thankful to all the first responders and their families. I see you. I know your strength and the struggle that gets hidden behind your smile, and the deep, overwhelming gratefulness when they come home safely.

I am proud to know that my brother-in-law went to New York days following the attack. Fortunately, he came home when others didn't. I watched my sister and nieces smile proudly, but on the inside be scared. Frightened of the unknown. I don't know how military families do it. God bless them as well. 
To my fellow fire families: you are not alone in the waiting. Your strength is the invisible backbone of every rescue, and your love is the safe harbor they return to. I pray for safety over every crew, peace over every anxious heart, and a quiet moment of rest for the families who proudly keep watch at home. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Stay safe, hold your loved ones tight, and remember—we are in this together.


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