Holiday Reflections: The Importance of Family

Recently I was scheduled to attend a planning meeting, but instead—because of a special request by my great-niece and her father, my nephew—I was privileged to participate in a very special family event. I witnessed five of my great-nieces and -nephews participating in a special tribal celebration in a plank house. Many people from British Columbia joined us for the gathering.

My time in that plank house was a full nine hours, with my wife at my side, hearing a lot of introductions, many stories, and much laughter, and enjoying great food and a warmth greater than that of two nearby fire pits as time was shared among us. Of the many special comments, one came to the forefront.

Time has a way of stealing itself and family, as well as cherished friends, from our presence. Suddenly they (or we) are taken, and we are left with only memories and maybe a few mementos to share. In the EMS and fire services today, we see many articles reporting line-of-duty deaths, and we see brief articles discussing honor, valor, and how that individual will be missed. Details are tended to, and life goes on.

I worked in EMS professionally for 10 years. While the job was laden with excitement, it also took its toll. What amazes me is how indifferent many of us have become when dealing with “outsiders," the people we serve in their time of need. Perhaps the holidays are a good time to remember that the gift of time with family and friends needs deep reconsideration.

I encourage each reader to take time to truly visit with your family and get to know something about each member. This can become a thought cornerstone to rely on as your days and nights blend into one blur. Look for those anchor points in traits and personalities. Listen to their hopes and dreams. Work will always be there, sitting off to one side, ready to throttle us on another day or night. But will that family member be there? Waiting for that special moment with you, someone they care about but haven’t had the chance to tell you?

Typically I write articles pertaining to work, vehicle care, safety, and instruction. But now I wish to remind you that every day is a time for life, health, happiness, and something meaningful to do in service to our communities. Cherish your time with your family. Learn something new and exciting about the many personalities that make up your extended household. You might be surprised at the goldmine of genuine love hidden within each personality. You may even learn a thing or two about yourself...perhaps why, when you walk into the room, their eyes light up (or not).

Do I regret not attending that meeting? Nah. You see, this month alone my "tribe" has lost two elders—cherished people well into their 80s, leaving only memories behind. When you get the chance to be with family, enjoy it to the fullest. Happy holidays to all.

Capt. David Clark, EMT-I, is a retired firefighter and EMT with North Lincoln Fire & Rescue in Oregon.