It's hard for me sitting at my computer, safe in my living room, to completely fathom the horror that has befallen our southern friends this last week.
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It's simply incomprehensible.
We've been bombarded with images of loss, strength, faith, and sadness.
But the photo of Harvey, a little boy, sucking his dummy and dressed in a child-size Rural Fire Service uniform for the funeral of his RFS volunteer father was probably the most heart-wrenching of all.
Geoffrey Keaton, was one of two firefighters killed while fighting the Green Wattle Creek blaze in south-west Sydney on December 19.
It brings home the reality of the situation we find ourselves in, and the fragility of it all too.
Things can change at the drop of a hat. But there are some in our community who step up regardless.
They know the dangers, they know they risk their lives, but they do it anyway.
I am not ashamed to admit I cried when I saw the video showing the moment one fire crew was overrun by flames on the south coast.
I cried because I was afraid for them, even knowing they had got out alive.
I don't believe in New Year's resolutions, but if I did, mine this year would be to appreciate the people I have around me.
It would be to spend more time with family and friends, those people who are dear and near to me. And to appreciate our community.
Stay safe.
Fiona Ferguson
Northern Daily Leader editor
