After the Fire

A Portland resident recounts the devastating loss of their home and car in a fire, which investigators believe started in a nearby storage shed but is still under investigation. While the fire's cause remains uncertain, the author connects their experience to a growing atmosphere of fear and hostility towards public officials across the country. They express gratitude for community support and acknowledge the painful reality that many in similar situations may not receive such help. The ongoing threats against public servants, highlighted by violent incidents in Minnesota and Pennsylvania, contribute to a sense of peril in Portland. The author recalls receiving a threatening email just days before the fire, illustrating the precariousness of their situation.

Despite these challenges, they emphasize the resilience of Portlanders, who continue to support one another in the face of adversity. The author concludes with a message of solidarity, asserting that while they cannot control the circumstances, they can control how they support each other. This reflection serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of community and the importance of mutual aid.