As we turn the calendar to 2023, my emotions return to the Boulder/Marshall wildfire of Dec. 31, 2022, that destroyed 1000 homes in minutes. Living in western USA, we all know wildfire is a threat around the clock and even in urban areas.
As victims of this fire face their first “anniversary” if that is possibly a term of losing literally everything in moments, my heart goes out to all these folks who had beautiful homes one minute and then nothing. Literally ashes in just moments.
So how can they celebrate Christmas with no precious ornaments gathered over the years? How can they possibly feel secure in a new, different and possibly still tentative residence this holiday? Can they ever forget that horrible day that destroyed their lives?
It takes hearty people and lots of support to endure a tragedy such as this. Even if insurance and state support finally kick in, the emotional baggage continues.
I’ve stayed in touch with one affected family supported by the Methodist Church. Thankfully, they are employed and finally found a new house so things are calming down after many months filled with unknowns and anxiety. Their resilience has instilled in me a tremendous thankfulness for the possessions and people I do have.
I also want to recall the generous giving of our community to these fire victims. With no advance plan, we assembled a gathering site for donations in the basement of the Meeker Church.
Remember, this was Jan. 1 when we were supposed to be watching parades and football games and celebrating a new year. Yet, people poured in with bags and boxes of donations all day long. We even got pet food donations.
Volunteers showed up to find shipping boxes, packaging tape and help sorting all the incoming donations. Some worked on arranging transportation to the front range and volunteers popped up for that important step too. Word of mouth, social media, and friendship brought together the Meeker community to help in a time of need.
By the end of Day 1 when we started with nothing, we ended up shipping 75 boxes of donations! I was astounded because I just hoped we could help a little. In the end, we helped a lot and sent another gathering of donations the next week.
In these hard days when Americans seem to be arguing over everything, I remind you that we, and especially we, Meeker, can cooperate, help, give, and support the greater good.
I’m asking you to send a positive thought or prayer to these folks who lost their homes and all their possessions just a year ago. Tis the season of giving, so send a bit of cheer to those who could benefit from your positive support.
By KAYE SULLIVAN – Special to the Herald Times
