My wish to everyone tonight is a silent night…no sirens, no whistles, no call to duty.

Every year, our fire department drives through the neighborhood…Santa on the back of the rescue truck wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas.

For years I would forget that this was the custom.  I would start hoping that the fire would be out soon and both the family and the firefighters would be safe. I would wish for a happy ending when I couldn’t imagine it would be. 

As a child growing up in a firefighters home, I’d wish for a silent night…not just on Christmas Eve.  I’d wish that no one would ever have to run out in the middle of the night to save someone or rescue them. That life was safe at home…My wish has not changed, though I know there are many brave souls – Firefighters, Police Officers and Military who don’t have the luxury of wishing – they act, they make things happen, they keep us safe.  Even on Christmas.  

Merry Christmas to all and to all a safe night…Dawn aka Hat Girl