First Responders: the Paradox of Resilience and Vulnerability

The role of First Responders is paradoxical. On the one hand there is the heroism of putting oneself directly in the path of pain, suffering, and danger. On the other hand, there is the need to connect empathically, by providing care and comfort, holding hands, wiping tears, and witnessing life and death moments. First Responders are tasked with doing all of this while tending to themselves, their fellow Responders, and their families, weighing the necessities of the community along with their own ontological being. Jung states, “… the paradox is one of our most valued spiritual possessions” (CW 12, 18). This is truly a mental, soulful, and spiritual path and each First Responder must establish adaptive practices that are effective and cohesive enough to maintain physical, mental, spiritual, and social health. However, relying solely on the individual for this immense responsibility is short sighted. Fellow First Responders, family and friends, and the community play crucial parts in the overall health and wellbeing of those who stand for us in the direst of circumstances. Collectively, we must hear and feel the stories, embrace the staggering paradoxes of this important work, and take the opportunity to tend those who put themselves on the line for us all.