2 Wildfire
Margarita Argueta-Naranjo
Inspired by “The Sound of Silverbells” in Braiding Sweetgrass
Summary: In this story, a firefighter recounts his experience growing up near a largely vegetated forest, that one day becomes the place where he must fight. The firefighter shares important rules he grew up remembering, presented to him in school by Smokey Bear. Lastly, he recalls familiar memories of the land, such as camping and hiking.
Keywords: vegetation, wildfire, land, rules, and firefighters.
Since I can remember, my parents have brought me to this land to see the endless trees, the shelters, and the water-beauty. We would spend days camping, hiking through vast vegetation, and roasting smores.
Growing up, I was introduced to Smokey Bear, a symbol used to promote forest fire prevention — a mascot. I would think, “I can help protect amazing places if I remember to be careful with fire, and I never play with matches or lighters.”
During our frequent family camping trips, I would make sure our campfire was completely out before leaving every single time.
But what happens when others do not follow these rules?
That is what I am facing today. Knowing that most wildfires are caused by humans, I feel betrayed.
As a walk through the burning vegetation, inhaling air pollutants such as carbon dioxide and black carbon, I cannot help but think about the animals and other living organisms found on this land. Fleeing and burning as the fire expands — consuming everything in its path.
I must protect the land. We must protect the land.
I look up and see helicopters above that are helping in the fight, dropping thousands of gallons of water on the fire.
I exhale a sigh of relief.
Maybe we do stand a chance of winning this fight caused by us.
