[MR] Strength

[Kynnyth Pyke]

I wanted to take a moment in the wake of yesterday's horrible events at Virginia Tech to say a couple of things.  First, I'm very happy to hear that all of our friends from Black Diamond have reported in as safe.  We always look first to our own, and are thankful to find them well.  We then, of course look to others.  As a father, I can't imagine what more than 30 sets of parents and their families are going through.  Even the thought of it puts a hard, cold lump in my stomach.  My heart goes out to all of them.

But most importantly, in this forum, I wanted to speak of something that is sometimes forgotten in situations like this.  For a number of years I was both a firefighter and a EMT in fairly active areas.  Anyone who has done this for any length of time will tell you that you are quickly exposed to things that, in a perfect world, no one would have to see.  Eventually, I turned to other pursuits, and I left that part of my life behind; but it did not wholly leave me behind.  The services that I, and thousands of other EMS personnel and firefighters render can weigh, heavily, even years afterwards.  So we learn, if we are lucky, to lean on each other, and on our friends and family.

My point here is this:  Although are friends in Black Diamond are physically safe, they have been through a tough time.  To them I would say put your hand on a friendly shoulder, and lean as much as you can let yourself lean, your loved-ones will be grateful for the opportunity to help.  To their friends and families, both SCA and mundane, I would say encourage them, and be their strength.  I wasn't always willing to ask for that shoulder, that strength, but I was always grateful to find it.  Of course, use your own best judgment and wisdom in this, but keep it in mind.

I hope that all of those affected by this incident will find peace,

Kynny



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