Editor:

This letter is for all those who gave during and after the Wilderness Ridge Fire.

Although one year has passed, the images in both mind and heart are still strong – for many of us, I imagine.

First and foremost, I want to acknowledge the firefighters, most of them volunteers, who put their lives on the line to save so many homes and took time away from their work and families during those long days and nights of the fire.

And thank you to community members, friends and complete strangers who were there during that time giving both emotional and physical support to those affected and who were moved to give for months after the tragedy.

Your kindness and generous hearts made all the difference.

The truth that we are never alone in this world was glowingly apparent in every direction I looked during the fire – thanks to all of you.

Jennifer Gwin
Smithville