Day 955: Night search

It is so very sad that Robin Williams committed suicide yesterday, but I find it profoundly sad whenever someone takes their own life.  It means they have been enduring extreme pain, despair and fear and then finally couldn't stand the agony any longer.  Overwhelmed by pain and torment, the only solution they could see was to end it all.   Much of the country is in mourning, but others have offered insensitive, cruel remarks.  One referred to the publicity his death earned while soldiers die without any attention.   However, Williams had served the troops for many years, offering his gifts to help soldiers deal with the challenges of combat and being away from their families.  I feel for his family as I have for the families of my friends who were also left behind to grapple with terrible loss.

Now,  at 10:30, Steve was called to a search for five hikers lost in Chautauqua Gorge.   No, No, No!  Such a dangerous job!  How can they conduct a search now?  Just getting into that deep gorge is too difficult at night.  They should wait till first light.  Hopefully, he'll be back in a few hours and then resume the search in the morning.  It's a good thing I took a nap today, cause there will be no sleep tonight.

Last night, he announced to his EMT instructors that this will be his last EMT class as CIC (certified instructor coordinator).  For thirty years, he's been in charge and for 39 years he has taught young, eager students how to save lives.  It's a remarkable achievement and an incredible gift to our entire community.   Two four hour classes each week and three every other week from mid August to mid December, plus the planning, hiring, completing forms, scheduling, counseling, purchasing, studying.  Of course, he has to take the exams, too.   Wow!

So, next fall, we will take our month long trip out west.  Close the pool up by mid September and take off to see the national parks.  We have always wanted to see "the middle" of the country.  Now, we will have our chance.

This is why our furniture is covered with sheets.  Paddy has broken with his tradition of sleeping all day in the basement.  Now, he surprises us with a new choice each day and Steve's chair has captured his attention.

Royal Finale