When Alberta pulled together to aid Fort McMurray in its time of need, Cochrane answered the call. Organizations, businesses and private citizens alike dug into their pockets, closets and creativity to pull together everything from cash to clothing to help so many who lost everything. Some, like seven-year-old Lathaniel Rivoires, put their efforts toward giving families something a lot of others took for granted this month -- a happy Mother's Day.
It was heartening and amazing to see the small town spirit of this community join with the rest of the province to help our northern neighbours in their time of need. Young and old, rich and poor, everyone seemed to try and do something, even open their doors to those who were left without shelter.
Cochranites should be proud of their efforts and while none sought thanks or praise - a testament to the giving and selfless nature of so many - we believe the people of Cochrane deserve a pat on the back. We are sure the thousands in Fort McMurray, who were helped by the citizens of this province, the country and indeed the world, would like to give all those kind souls a collective hug.
We would remiss not to recognize the brave efforts of the emergency personnel - firefighters, RCMP officers and health workers - who put themselves in the danger zone to help fight the blaze, keep the peace and ensure people stay in good health.
While there is so much to praise during this state of emergency, it has not come without its disappointments. There were those who used this time of tragedy for so many to push their own political agenda or demonstrate their callous natures. While we think those types were few, there were enough. From some in our own legislature on both sides of the floor, to citizens who felt the need to wish harm on people because of their dislike of the oil industry they should all feel ashamed of themselves. If they could not have taken lesson in compassion and charity from the many who opened their hearts to the fire-ravaged city, they should have at least sat in silence. Anyone who would make political hay or wish further tragedy on a group of people suffering, should be ashamed of their despicable natures.
That so many heroes, from all walks of life, emerged in this time of crisis demonstrates that regardless of who we are, we are a community. That is something we should all strive to remember once the flames are extinguished, the homes rebuilt and life returns to normal.
Regardless of our social, political, religious and personal beliefs, there might come a time when we need the help of our neighbours and as Canadians have shown time and again to our own and to those around the world, we are a community of people who care. That is why so many here at home and abroad stepped up with offers to help -- from Russia to Mexico to Israel and Palestine to Taiwan and Australia. Could other nations boast such a diverse offer of aid?
