The situation generically has been in my prayers as I pray for world concerns. While this is a friend of a friend sort of note, it still personalizes it for me. Thanks for the posting.
Thanks everyone. The worst part of this, most of the brushfires have been set by arsonists. Unbelieveable
Has anyone heard from Penny (DM)? Penny prayers go out for you and for everyone affected by this. Hope you're okay!
She posted in Marty's thread in the 'Science & Technology' forum. I believe she said she was fine as it was far away from her. And Kevin, best wishes go out to your friend and his family.
I'm safe Mary for once NSW has avoided major bush fires. In fact it's a little chilly and it's raining. My mum's cousin down south has lost everything. Her neighbours are dead and 20 of the people she worked with at the local community centre have also died. Their brand new house has been reduced to ash and dust. They, themselves were fortunate enough to have been away over the weekend unwittingly avoiding the devastation. People told her that you could see the smoke in the distance, you felt like you had plenty of time to get out so you took your time but within minutes 30 metre (98 ft) flames had engulfed the area. Now our 'Greens' group is being blamed for not allowing back-burning in the area. You think they would have learnt from the major fires we had in Canberra a few years back - but no. The toll is at 173 now but it's expected to reach around 230. And yes, one fire was started by a lit cigarette butt allegedly thrown out a car window. And I read the other day that another was started by some arsonist who re-lit it once it had been put out. The sad reality is they'll get away with it. Please do pray for the families who have lost loved ones, that they lose no more. But also for the firefighters and volunteers who are putting their lives at risk to try and put the damn things out. It's truly amazing what these men and women are doing. Thanks guys and girls.
Thank goodness you're okay Penny. Where will my girls send their thank you cards to? I'm very sorry about your mum's cousin and, especially, her neighbors. Will continue to pray for everyone affected by this.
Sister DM you have my love and prayers. Its so frustrating and sad that some feel the desire to visit their misery on others by starting these fires. Someday they will pay
Thanks Alen, Greg Dixon, but we just call him Dix (we have another Greg in the group) is a fine man, and have called him a friend for over 5 years now. He has a real generous heart, and I know this is just killing him. Its a very difficult time for our brothers & sisters down under, and we will be there for them.
According to the local news police are close to picking up one of the suspects. There is a large call here to have them charged with attempted murder. Of course, even if they are they will get away with it as no "sane" person would start fires for the fun of it in 40ºC + (104ºF +) dry heat. It's a sad reality. All we can really hope is that those who have managed to survive are able to rebuild their lives.