Last week, my dear friends' parents business in New York burned to the ground. They lost everything in the fire, 50 years of tools, some 4 wheelers, motorcycles, trucks...everything. My heart was devestated for them.

Today, I went to my 2nd job and found out a dear woman I have worked with for over 15 years lost her house this morning to a fire. It's completely gutted.

I thank the lord that no one was injured in either of the fires. I know that many items can be replaced and they both had sufficient insurance, but the feeling of invasion and loss they must be going through is something I just can't imagine.

When I was a young teen, we had a small fire in our house that my younger brother inadvertenly caused. I remember the feeling of helplessness and fear that overcame me then. We were able to stay in our home, the worst part of it was the smoke and water damage. But, to have lost everything....gracious...I just don't know.

I sent my girlfriend some money to donate to her parents, and today we had a wonderful outpouring of support from my employer and fellow employees...a couple thousand dollars are being given to my cohort in crime at the newspaper. They are even setting up a fundraiser for her and her husband....which is way cool!

Please send your prayers their way if you would be so kind.
The can all use our strength and good wishes and prayers they can get right now.