Courage in Every Community

Some news stories stop us in our tracks, reminding us of the quiet heroism that often goes unseen. This week, reports of the devastating apartment complex fire in Hong Kong have done just that. With at least 94 lives lost and more than 70 injured, including 11 firefighters, the scale of the tragedy is almost impossible to comprehend. Families are grieving, communities are shaken, and many are still waiting for word about loved ones.

When events like this reach us from across the globe, they also shine a light on the people closer to home who stand ready to protect us. In Nova Scotia, the vast majority of our province is safeguarded not by full-time professionals, but by volunteer firefighters: neighbours, friends, and community members who drop everything when the call comes in. They leave the comfort of their homes so that others might stay safe in theirs.

Firefighters everywhere share this same commitment: a willingness to step toward danger so that others may step away. It is a level of courage and selflessness that is easy to overlook until tragedy reminds us just how essential it truly is.

Today, we pause to think of those in Hong Kong who are grieving, those who are injured, and those who continue searching for survivors. We also extend appreciation to the good people here at home who serve with humility and heart. Their actions reflect something core to who we are as a province: when one of us is in need, others rise.

In honouring them, we honour the best of ourselves.

Warmly,

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong