ten years.

Ten years ago today, my family lost our house to a fire. All of us, including the dog, came out with no injuries. We escaped into the fresh air and minutes later were surrounded by friends, family, neighbors, church members, and strangers. Boxes of toys, clothes, books, cash. Volunteers tried to salvage our belongings. The firefighters put casts on my baby sister's scorched teddy bear. Strangers provided food for everyone involved. The house across the street provided solace to me and my siblings as our house was being consumed.

All I had were the clothes on my back, my own teddy bear, and my scriptures from my baptism. But suddenly, even as an 11 year old, I realized that it would be okay. Because my mom and dad were here. My brothers and sister were here. Ranger was here. I would be taken care of. And while my melted Beanie Babies were somewhat of a tragedy, the lessons of love, service, and family I learned that day are priceless.

A huge thanks to those who were there in that great time of need. I may not have completely understood at the time, but your acts of service changed the lives of my whole family.