Horrible

Just before going to bed I took a quick look at CNN news.

I was horrified by the announcement that 19 firefighters were lost fighting a wildfire in Arizona.

I find it hard to sleep tonight, thinking about what pain the families of these men and probably a few women are experiencing tonight.

Every death of this kind is horrible.  Nineteen at one time is unthinkable. 

One of the sad things about it is knowing when it comes down to "why" it is really all about property and stuff.

We think they fight fire to save the forest or the land.  Fire is a natural event. The forest will recover.  It will take years, perhaps generations, but in earth time the land will heal and life will return.

In truth, fighting wildfires is to save manmade structures, people's things, and preserve present day property values. Short term reasons.  We cannot wait for nature to heal the land. 

Some will say it was god's will and they will gather in churches all over the country to cry and sing.  Then they will go home and be glad their houses didn't burn down, and their stuff is safe.

I live in a place that could burn down in a wildfire. To me these men were heroes, and my heart goes out to their loved  ones and their community.

Thats all.