As I sit here in our Florida room enjoying the breeze coming into the windows on this sunshine filled day I think about those that fight long and hard to ensure that our neighborhoods are safe and literally hold the line so no further harm will be done. I am talking about the fire departments in an around Lake County that have fought and long hard this past week as the Green Swamp burned over 1,000 acres and filled the South Lake skies with billowing smoke and put the fear of fire into the lives of all those within view of this massive blaze.

From the comfort of our home, just a few days ago, a friend called to see if we were okay. (We were.) The fire was so massive it could be seen from the end of our street, a location that is 8 miles from the Green Swamp. Yes, that is one huge fire! Living near the main highway we could hear the sirens for hours as they whizzed down Highway 50 to sights unknown to do what they have been trained to do – hold the line of a fire that consumed 1,200 acres of unoccupied swamp land, a fire that does not pose danger to structures in the area – but worries thousands that live nearby and thousands more that are being affected by the smoke filled skies.

Just this morning I was sitting on our deck (working) and watching our little one play on the swing set when all of a sudden the skies changed to grey. At first we thought it was the storms moving in; then we realized it was the fire flaring up again and the massive winds are covering our community with smoke. We go inside, we close the windows, and sit inside our nice comfy house as once again sirens blare down our quiet streets for sights unknown. Now we sit here watching the winds blow the smoke all about and pray. That is what we can do, stay inside and offer prayers of protection for those men and women on the front line, those who’s health is being affected by the smoke, to “sound aloud the praise, and give the victor-crown. To our noble-hearted Fireman, who fear not danger’s frown.” – Federic G.W. Fenn, “Ode to our Firemen,” 1878

Thank you to the men and women of all city and county agencies that work to keep us safe… as we sit in our comfy homes praying for your safe return to yours.

FIREFIGHTER’S PRAYER

When I'm called to duty God
wherever flames may rage
give me strength to save a life
whatever be its age 

Help me to embrace a little child
before it is too late
or save an older person from
the horror of that fate

Enable me to be alert
to hear the weakest shout
and quickly and efficiently
to put the fire out

I want to fill my calling and
to give the best in me
to guard my neighbor and
protect his property

And if according to your will
I have to lose my life
bless with your protecting hand
my children and my spouse.