When I was growing up I played softball, ran each day with my dad (retired police officer), did karate, and got down and dirty with the boys. I never have been one to wear dresses or skirts, I was fine with jeans, shorts and a shirt to go along with my boots.
I rodeo now and when I was 13 I told my dad that I want to be a firefighter. He told me to go for it, do what you want and it’s not like you don’t know the whole department. I may not be the biggest, the strongest, or the toughest but I went with my dreams.
Two years later and now I’m on our local fire department as an Explorer. At the time I was going to a small school of 96 kids from k-8 grade. Most of my teachers and others at the school thought it was awsome that I was doing something that I had longed for then there was my 6-8 grade english teacher he was very sexist he thought that it was a man’s field. Well sorry to say, Mr.Spitzer, but LOOK AT ME NOW!
It hasn’t been easy by any means. I have to work just as hard as everyone else plus take on the cleaning and restocking of the station and trucks. I have to run everyday and spend as much time as I can dedicating myself to firefighting.
All I can say is girls are just as good maybe even better than guys, but we all are created equal.
2 comments
Tamrah
i’m the same way as you! i’m joining the volunteer firedepartment my great grandpaw started in just a couople of weeks. the guys don’t think i’m up for it but i’m determined and its somethin i wanna do…. so i’m gonna go for it just like you did! :)
gretchen
It’s great to see someone so focused on what they love to do at such a young age. Kimberly, it sounds like you are on the right track and you’ve got a great support system in place. You’re gonna go far in life!