Grief and Gratitude in a Difficult Time
The horrific fires that cost thousands of our neighbors in the Los Angeles area to lose their homes and, in some terrible cases, to lose their lives has made all of us grieve. It’s also made us appreciate our communities and those hardworking people who helped combat the fires, to keep everyone informed, to organize relief efforts and to do everything possible to keep us safe.
First and foremost, we are grief stricken at the loss of precious lives, and at the loss of the homes that contained thousands of our neighbors’ lives and memories. Nothing replaces such loss and we extend our hearts out to all who are suffering.
Second, we thank the incredibly brave and hardworking LAFD fire fighters and the firefighters who raced to help LA from around the country, Canada and Mexico. The LAPD, our utility workers and everyone else who fought the fires back, kept public order, helped people evacuate and restored power. An event like this reminds us of how this infrastructure of human effort keeps us safe. Some of these fire fighters fought the roaring fires with very little sleep – working double shifts for days. Such dedication inspires all of us and builds our ties stronger.
And we thank our City workers, our CD5 Council Member, Katy Yaroslavsky, and her fantastic staff for keeping everyone informed and doing everything possible to care for the community.
The size of such a catastrophe will require a major effort on the part of everyone living in the Los Angeles area. Stay safe.