Wow, 10 years in the fire service, it’s hard to believe how far I’ve come. When I graduated from high school, I had a few career paths in mind, and becoming a firefighter was one of them. Surprisingly, it wasn’t my first choice initially, I was considering the military, then a career in law enforcement, and finally, firefighting. Even when I joined the explorer program, I wasn’t entirely convinced that firefighting was my calling. For those of you wondering, the explorer program is like a blend of JROTC and a boy/girl scout club, designed to prepare you for a future in the fire service by the age of 18. I spent five years in that program, and looking back, it was one of the best decisions I ever made. I was just 13 years old when I started, and during that time, I learned everything I could about firefighting. We participated in tournaments and even had the chance to ride along with the firefighters on shift. Looking back, my only regret is not taking more opportunities to ride along.
After high school, an unexpected opportunity presented itself…the Clayton County Fire Department hired me. Now, I truly believe that fate played a role in this, and I’m incredibly grateful for it. At the end of the day, I wanted to serve in some capacity, and in 2013, I officially became a firefighter. I was over the moon with excitement! I was going to fight fires, help people, and make tons of money.. what could be better? But let me tell you, I got a reality check that year. My first year in the fire service might have been one of the toughest, but looking back, it was also one of the best things that ever happened to me as a young man. The fire service taught me invaluable lessons, and I evolved from a boy into a man. Yes, I even learned how to start a chainsaw!
In the fire service, I quickly learned the importance of having thick skin. In my first year, it often felt like I had issues with everyone or that people had issues with me. But there was one piece of advice that changed everything for me.. “Pick your battles, son.” Initially, I was annoyed by it because I believed the person giving me this advice didn’t understand my frustrations. However, as time passed, I began to grasp its significance. To anyone aspiring to join the fire service, remember that not every disagreement or issue needs your attention. Sometimes, you just have to walk away and live to fight another day.. Lets keep it real that is life in general.
Working for the fire department, I had time away from the station, and a wise lady once told me, “You have time away from here, so use your time wisely.” She was absolutely right. With our schedules, we work one 24-hour shift and have two days off (unless you’re at headquarters). This provided me with the opportunity to explore other interests and create a side hustle. I realized the importance of not relying solely on one income source. It was a lesson I hadn’t fully grasped when I first started, but through trials and uncertainties, I learned the value of having a backup plan.
During my initial years in the fire service, I was dedicated and gave my all on every shift. However, I’ve come to understand that it’s equally important to give my all at home. Over the course of these 10 years, a lot has changed. I’ve gone from being a 19-year-old to a 29-year-old with a son. I’m committed to being there for him every step of the way. But it’s not just about him, I’ve also learned the importance of taking care of myself. In the fire service, I’ve witnessed the mental and physical toll it can take especially when the COVID 19 pandemic happened . Now, I prioritize my vacations and time away, recognizing the significance of maintaining my mental well being.
In my first year as a firefighter, people around me had doubts. Rumors even circulated that I wouldn’t make it, that I wasn’t cut out for this. Some have recently told me that they thought I would quit. But my response has always been, “No, I had no choice.” To some, this might sound funny, but I didn’t grow up wealthy, and the economy at the time wasn’t in great shape. Despite all of that, I had resilience… quitting was never an option for me. When I was given the opportunity to become a firefighter, I knew I couldn’t let it slip away. I’ll forever be grateful to Clayton County Fire & Emergency Services. They took a chance on me, and I appreciate that more than words can express. Some people had many opportunities growing up, but if they knew my journey, they’d understand just how thankful I am. Perhaps ill write a book next?
Growing up in Clayton County and becoming a firefighter is nothing short of unbelievable. I often find myself wondering how I got here. It all happened so quickly. Honestly, I couldn’t have done it without the unwavering love of my mother and the REAL advice from the “old heads” of the department. So, what’s next? Well, only time will tell, and I’m excited to see where this remarkable journey takes me. Please follow me along the way. Soon I will have a page set up to show YOU how to become a firefighter if you are interested or know anyone else who may be interested.
