I received the final proof at the beginning of the week and also had to leave my fire station and crew of nearly four years, get promoted, and work through a scare with Banjo, the Labrador who inspired Cricket (more on that later).
Although writing is my first and most constant love, I also have the privilege of serving as a professional firefighter. I have been fortunate enough for the past four years to work out of the same old, moldy fire station, my first coming out of recruit school. This week, I begin paramedic school full time and with the promotion, I was officially transferred away from this home away from home. Speaking with my wife, who put it in perspective for me (she has a habit of doing that) as I worked 24 hours on shift, 48 hours off, I have spent a third of the last three years at that station. Normally I avoid looking at life that way, it can get a bit daunting...you spend a third of your life asleep...you spend three whole years commuting to work...you spend 40 whole days of your life brushing your teeth, if you have cavities, maybe 30... It starts to make you feel like you waste a lot of time, and as the only resource on earth that we simply can't have more of, that can be a bit of a downer. But as far as its related to the fire station, it brought a smile to my face. If you ever have the chance to be a firefighter, take it. There is no better job in the world.
Banjo (aka Cricket) |
So why post this news at all, well, hopefully, I'm going to bring this all together. While I don't think you should spend your time counting the hours you spend wasting time cutting your toenails or the years you spend in the shower, a little bit of healthy recognition that time, for us here on earth at least, is not infinite. So...if you have a Banjo, go give her a big hug and if you don't, go to the nearest shelter and get you one. If you have a dream, start chasing. And you have to spend 40 days of your life brushing your teeth, buy the tasty toothpaste.
Well you did it again.. I have yet to read your blog without crying. I am inspired by you
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