A Holiday Message to our Wildland Firefighting Family

To Our Wildland Firefighting Family,

For many, the holidays bring images of warmth, family, and celebration. But for those in the wildland firefighting community, the season often carries something more complex—feelings of isolation, exhaustion, uncertainty, even loss of purpose after a long, relentless fire season. For some, the work still isn’t done. Fires don’t follow calendars, and many of you are still on the fire line while the world celebrates around you.

We see you. We know what you’re going through.

We know the emptiness that can creep in after months of intensity, when the adrenaline fades and you’re left alone with your thoughts. We know how hard it can be to reconnect with family and friends when you feel like they can’t fully understand what you’ve been through. We know the boredom that sets in when the pace slows and the uncertainty that looms when the next season—and paycheck—feels far away.

The “Christmas Spirit” isn’t about perfect gifts or glowing lights, decadent food, or even holiday parties!  It’s about connection, compassion, and finding meaning even when life feels heavy. It’s about reaching out—especially when it’s hard. It’s about the gift of life and the meaning we choose to create. It’s about love and redemption. 

This season, we encourage you to:

Stay connected. Even a short text message or phone call can make a world of difference. Check in with a friend, a coworker or someone you trust. Let them check in on you, too. 

Step away from the noise. Social media can magnify feelings of isolation. Take a break. Give yourself space to be present with those around you—or just with yourself.

Get outside. Nature isn’t just where we work—it’s also where we heal. A quiet walk in the woods, a moment by the water, or even breathing in the winter air can help reset your mind.

Take care of yourself. Sleep, movement, good food, staying hydrated—these aren’t luxuries, they’re lifelines. You’ve given so much; it’s okay to give yourself what you need, too. 

Most importantly, please remember: You are not alone. We are here. If you’re struggling—whether it’s with your mental health, a sense of purpose, or just the weight of everything—reach out. We get it. We’ve been there. We care. 

Reach out to wellness@wffoundation.org or call our office at 208-336-2996.

We check our email and phone messages regularly. 

This season, let’s focus on what really matters: the people we care about, the bonds that carry us through, and the strength we find in showing up—for each other and for ourselves.

Thank you for all you’ve done, all you continue to do, and all you are. You are more than your work, more than your struggles. You are worthy of rest, connection, and peace.

We wish you a meaningful, peaceful Christmas and a New Year filled with hope, healing, and connection.

With deep gratitude and unwavering support,
Eric