WHERE ARE THE ANGELS?

Tuesday September 1, 2009

WHERE ARE THE ANGELS?

The name Los Angeles (as in the city and county where some of the major western wildfire are blazing) is Spanish for The Angels. I have also often read that the nickname for the city of L.A. is the city of angels. I certainly hope that the county and city are ready to live up to their name. All available angels are urgently needed to assist their namesake area through a difficult time.

The residents of the Los Angeles area are facing some tough times in the coming days. The wildfires just continue to grow despite the hard work and best efforts of the firefighters. The last report puts the number of acres burned at 100,000. More and more areas are threatened. More and more people have had to evacuate their homes with very little notice.

Several days ago I wrote about the danger to several critical communication towers. The fires are within a few miles of these towers now. There is very little which can be done to protect these towers because of the rough mountainous terrain. I urge everyone to make a plan now of how they would communicate with loved ones if phone reception is lost. Instead of heading back into a dangerous area to find family, you should pick a safe meeting place well outside the fire area for everyone to head towards. If you have to leave your home or work unexpectedly due to the fires, please leave a very visible note stating that you have gone and where. Many people are injured or lose valuable time searching for family or friends who have already departed.

Yes all the angels are needed. Perhaps you will encounter one in the midst of the dense smoke which is covering the area. If you don't see one materialize when needed then it is time for you to step up and strap on some angel wings. Many of your neighbors are in distress. You should aid and comfort them in any manner you are able to.

Here are just a few examples of how you could help.
-If you have time then volunteer at a shelter
-If you have money consider donating some of it to a local relief group
-If you have extra clothes or household possessions share them with a family who has been burned out
-If you love animals give a home or supplies to an animal shelter

Where are the angels? They are everywhere. All you have to do is catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror after an unselfish act of assistance and you will find one.

There is more evacuation information available at www.wineandchocolateplan.com