For the Grinders
For the grinders…
For the ones who don’t care about the B.S… For the ones who walk into a dirty station, don’t say a word and just clean it, because they know how to choose their battles. They could confront the other shifts, and they might possibly have a good excuse, then again, they might not. But the time it would take to have that conversation, the work could’ve been done and on to the next task of the day. If it was dirty for spiteful purposes, they refuse to give the ones responsible the satisfaction of an altercation over such a meaningless topic.
Luck is the last dying wish of someone who hasn’t put the work in
For the ones who love seeing someone try to hold them back, and overcome the adversity… They refuse to lay down for anyone, staying driven by the goal they set out to achieve. Nobody will stop these people, and they love to see you try. In fact, it’s quite the opposite of what you’re trying to accomplish. The satisfaction that you get from throwing a speedbump in their lane of travel, is incomparable to the gratification that they feel when your attempts are fruitless. You see, these people love a challenge. They look forward to the hard jobs, and wont bat an eye when faced with misfortune. These are winners.
For the ones who aren’t too good to make a mistake… These are the ones who highlight their own mistakes, hoping that someone will learn from it. They aren’t afraid to admit fault. They don’t let their ego get in the way of progress. They understand that luck has no place in the fire service. Luck is the last dying wish of someone who hasn’t put the work in, and success is the moment that preparation and opportunity meet.
For the rogues… the ones who go against the grain. They don’t do it for what is often mistaken as an attempt to be different, or to steal the spotlight. They do it because it is necessary, and it will fill the void for the weaker people who aren’t willing to take the hits. These are the sheepdog. They realize that the best decision is never best for everyone, nor is it the most comfortable for most. But this is their haven. They’re so comfortable being uncomfortable. They’ve been there before, and aren’t afraid to eat alone for the bigger picture. They aren’t influenced by power, money, political pressure, personal friendship or rank. They base their decisions on what is right. Any factor other than the one that will provide a mother another opportunity to see her kids, is secondary in their eyes. They’re hyper-engaged with the mission, and you will never break that.
Those who don’t understand them, probably never will. Those who don’t understand them are probably offended...
For the ones who just can’t let it slide… the dangling regulator, 4400 PSI in their SCBA, the guy who refuses to buckle his waist strap, unintentional PASS activations etc. They will confront these issues every time. They are incapable of accepting mediocrity out of themselves or anyone around them. They just aren’t wired the same as the crowd. Those who don’t understand them, probably never will. Those who don’t understand them are probably offended, which is (believe it or not) the very last thing that these people are trying to do. Despite what you think, they’re doing it for you. They’re doing it for your partner, your family and the families you are responsible for. Nothing they do is for themselves. The details that most people overlook, will literally give them a stomach ache.
For the ones who don’t fit this category… STEP UP!
For the ones who try to hold the grinders back… keep trying. We need you around, you’ve played a vital role in the success of your departments best leaders. We value you.
For the men and women who fit into this category… from the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU. Your work doesn’t go unnoticed by the ones who matter. When you’re questioning how much of a difference you’re making, just know that someone is watching, whether you realize it or not. They’re relying on you as their leader. Although it may not seem like it all the time, you have more followers than you think, no matter your rank or position. Don’t ever underestimate your ability to influence others. Continue to seek out the hard jobs. Lead by example. Strive to remedy your mistakes and correct your actions before anyone else gets the chance to. Fight complacency and mediocrity, with the intensity of how you would protect your family. Thanks again, and stay awesome! We appreciate every one of you.
