Article November 17, 2003 ISSUE

PRAYER AND THE CALIFORNIA FIRES

By Channing Walker

As I write this, ash comes down like snow-flakes. Wind gusts hitting 60 m.p.h. hurl the fire from ridge to mountain ridge, each time a bit closer to us. A battalion of firefighting helicopters passes by overhead, creating a constant drone. And authorities have told our community to prepare in case we suddenly need to evacuate.

So, the car is in the driveway pointing out, and we've tossed a few items in it. It's crazy, the stuff you momentarily think is important. Forget the china, but what about the photo album? The 16-year-old made sure to stash his homework in the car. Can you imagine that? I am in awe of how conscientious he is, and I wonder what it must be like to live life being that diligent.