Controlled Fire

They stood spread out along the edges of the wooded area, along roads and trails. They watched as the fire spread throughout the area. This was no ordinary fire. It was one set by the people watching it. To keep the fire under control, they would have to keep the fire contained within the boundaries they had set before they ignited the fire.

The fire spread rapidly at times and slowly at other times. It was controlled by the wind, but other small, barely-noticeable factors also controlled what the fire did. As long as the people followed certain precautions and did as they were taught, the fire remained under control.

But if they became either lazy or egotistical, they would lose control. When this happened, the fire jumped outside of the safe perimeters and started other blazes that would spread rapidly.

The people had to use most of their energy and strength to get these fires under control. They learned quickly that it was wiser to keep a watchful eye on the fire while it was under control than to let down their guard and let it get away from them.

Ever watching over them was the fire chief, the one who knew how to control the fire. If they had questions, uncertainties, or doubt, they could go to the fire chief for answers and directions. He not only knew how to control the fire, but how to get it back under control once it got outside of the safe perimeters. He gave the people a sense of calm in a dangerous situation, just by knowing that they could go to the fire chief anytime and he would be there for them to guide them.

How long has it been since you have talked to the Fire Chief?

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Contributed by Jonathan Polk
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