A lot of our more critical work often happens quietly to protect those needing us the most. When an opportunity occurs to allow all of you to peer into our world, we think it’s important because we know you care.

Last Friday, we had the distinct privilege of being with families at the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Christmas tree lighting in Emmitsburg, Maryland. This week centers on hosting families at the National Fire Academy who have lost a firefighting family member in the line of duty, allowing them to be with others who have been through the same tragedy.

Prior to the lighting this year, a memorial wreath was laid by the NFFF honor guard who is comprised of members from across the nation. They were also accompanied by the current administrators of the United States Fire Administration and FEMA.

The setting of these events allowed an immense amount of personal interaction with the families who gravitated toward Tesla as they grieved their loss. Smiles, selfies, and family photos with the pup went on for over 30 minutes. The raw emotions as family members touched the etched name of those lost on the monuments turned to peace as one by one, for just that moment, hugging a quiet pup erased it.

As we began to migrate from the memorial to the chapel, a precious little girl walked over to us with her mom. Her oversized hood obscured her face in the cold wind as she clutched a teddy bear which was well loved. Thread bare in some areas and dirty in others, it was clear that this was far more than just a toy. I sat down on the cold ground next to her as she stroked Tess’s ears and ran her finger up and down her nose. I said “Hi my name is Matt and this is Tesla”. She responded with “this is my teddy bear” and extended out this cherished possession to lay on my shoulder and rest against my ear. She came to the other side and leaned into me saying “Listen”, “That’s my daddy’s heartbeat”.

As clear as day, her daddy’s heartbeat pierced the wind and filled my ear. Her little arm tapped me on the shoulder as if she was saying it was ok. She then turned around and hugged her bear as hard as she could and kissed it.

It’s hard to express how that felt. One of the guys in our class walked up and looked at me. He simply asked if I was ok and that was all it took. I wasn’t.

If you’re still with me on this, I appreciate it. I guess what I am trying to convey is to take a moment to reach out and tell someone they matter. Show them for just that second that with a world of options, they are your choice. These few seconds will be something I remember for the rest of my life. Do that for someone or just be there for them when they can use a shoulder.

We underestimate our impact and can make a tremendous one with just a few words or a small action. Just do it. Life is short and the worst mistake we can make is thinking we have time.