Who comes to mind when you hear the term “First Responder”?
Firefighters, police, military, medical response, and health care workers...let’s also include disaster and public works responders…
The state of the world requires us to be ever-present to one another. The phrase “the world is on fire” could not be truer. Global and local conflicts, struggles and hostilities; climate and ecological crises; food and housing insecurities; rising physical and mental health concerns…
Remember that most first responders in our communities chose their profession because they were called to serve others. Daily, they dedicate their lives to responding, preparing, and training for emergencies and crises.
If you or a loved one has ever been the recipient of a 911 call, an ER visit, or an ICU admission, you know the quick decisions and responses required when circumstances are critical and uncertain. We often don’t know their names or details about their lives. They dedicate their days and nights to our safety, comfort, and healing. They deal with a lot of trauma, stress, and burnout. We must thank them, pray for them, and support them! Please make a special effort to express your gratitude.
I’ve been thinking about this post since last November. Dr. Mike Petrow, a spiritual director and faculty member at The Center for Action and Contemplation, planted this seed. He asks us to consider how each of us is called to be a first responder.
In the maritime world, signal flags are used for communication — each flag, pendant, or combination represents letters, numbers, or specific, urgent messages. The combination of the D (Delta) and V (Victor) flags in the International Code of Signals (ICS) specifically means: “I am maneuvering with difficulty and require assistance”.
Sometimes I wish we could use signal flags or distress signals (whistles, flares, SOS flashing light) for our current state of mind or situation. Certainly not a practical method but you get the symbolic idea.
I am trying to amplify this notion because people around us are troubled and don’t know where to turn or what to do. You might be that person who needs a little help from a friend.
How might we respond to those who are sick, tired, lonely, grieving, or overwhelmed?
You are a first responder in the midst of everyday life when you:
- help someone go through hard things.
- help others carry their heavy burdens.
- help those who have fallen get back on their feet.
- aid those who have lost their way.
- are present to those who feel hopeless.
- listen compassionately.
- are someone to trust and lean on.
- help someone draw strength from faith and spirituality.
- can remind them, despite their struggles, they are loved!
I believe God is always with us, but sometimes God feels so far, far away. I’ve witnessed and experienced God showing up in ways I could have never imagined. God shows up by sending us caring and loving people. People with whom we share our joys and sorrows.
We need each other. We need to turn toward (not away) when others are in pain or suffering. Listen, don't rush or offer advice unless solicited. Let them know, “I see you, I hear you, I am with you. Rest, you are safe with me.”
We are not meant to navigate life, much less any crisis or circumstance, no matter how big or small, alone. Reaching out to a loved one or someone you trust is not a sign of weakness. Allowing ourselves to be vulnerable enough to ask for help means that one day we can be a first responder to someone else.
“Here’s a reminder — it’s really hard to be alive, and it’s really hard to love, but it’s worth it. It’s worth paying the price to love.” Dr. Mike Petrow
One of the most loving things we can do is be a fellow companion on this crazy life journey. We can be a source of LOVE, which is the best response of all.
Peace,
JJH