*Tyra and Edith*

      When the Imperial Beach fire truck arrived Tyra was driving. Tyra is my neighbor and sometimes she stops at her house a minute. That day Tyra was not smiling. She was not stopping at her house. The ambulance followed her. Chills covered my body and tears filled my eyes. I realized Edith (our elderly neighbor and dear friend) was hurt.
       As I fought back strong emotions I wondered how Tyra did it? How did Tyra not fall apart? We both love Edith. Gosh, I've loved Edith forever. Somehow I refrained from asking questions. I didn't get in the way. But I craved to hold Edith's hand and say, "I love you."  Instead I prayed.
     That Saturday (some weeks ago) Edith fell and broke her hip. I talked to her as paramedics carefully placed her in the ambulance. She was in pain. I watched the firefighters, the paramedics, and I watched Tyra. Everyone was professional yet loving. I was happy Edith was in good hands.
     I thought a lot about these two women. One woman was in severe pain in need of immediate help and the other woman (put emotions aside) gave the help. Amazing. God bless the Imperial Beach firefighters and paramedics for their quick response and tender loving care.
     I just hung up with Edith. She sounded great. She has about a week left of physical therapy. Bless her heart she has a good attitude for a gal with pins and screws fastening her hip. She's grateful for the many get well cards she has received.
     As for Tyra, when she is not fighting fires or helping people, you might see her at the beach. She's the cutest surfer in I.B.