People see their most sacred values in symbols-the American flag, the Canadian flag-and places of worship, monuments, and national historic buildings. All symbols have deep meanings. The World Trade Center was attacked because of its symbolism to freedom's enemies. We need to respect and defend and, most importantly, be dignified stewards of our symbols, for all draw inspiration from the strength and courage they represent. Today our communities need us to reflect what they see in a fire truck. Whether we want to admit it or not, we are what other people believe us to be. For us in the profession of firefighting, this is an honorable calling and a great responsibility. Being or becoming what others believe us to be is true for everyone and, as an outgrowth of that fundamental truth, it is the same for every institution and profession. Firefighters are internally guided to do things we believe match others' expectations of what firefighters are or should be. We do these things to be seen as legitimate in the estimation of others, even though we might not want to believe it. We do it to be true to our own beliefs about our profession.
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