Q: Who must do the difficult things?
A: Those who can.
- Japanese Riddle
Police officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians America s first responders are, and always will be in a tough and stressful occupation. In addition to the ever-increasing dangers of today s world, along with the related stress from post 9/11 terrorism, there now appears to be even more severe sources of stress for our first responders than ever before. With the increased attention and criticism from the media, public anxiety and loss of morale because of layoffs, reduced benefits and no pay raises due to government and departmental budget crisis, these everyday challenges are quickly building on the shoulders of today s heroes. Even positive change for first responder s departments, such as new and increased anti-terrorism training, has increased the stress for personnel by adding to already rigorous assignments. It is also becoming increasingly clear that the business of first responding exacts a severe toll on the responder s own family, bringing with it serious consequences. Stress among first responder personnel and their families can add to an already stressful home environment, impairing one s ability to perform his or her job in a safe and effective manner.

In response to this, we have created this book to address these very issues. This book is based in part on a workshop developed by Dan Jordan called, "The Magic to Balancing Stress." Dan has taken to speaking nationally, presenting strategies to first responders to help balance job stress and the impact it has on their families. In addition to the basic stress reduction tips and ideas presented, he also introduces a formula to balancing stress called the "Triad of Balance." This formula, consisting of creativity, humor, and playfulness, can effectively balance one s stress in life and work. Sure, an emergency operation is no laughing matter, but, when the "Triad" is properly applied, these tools can, and already have, successfully helped first responders deal positively with the stress from unusual occurrences at work, job related problems, and other similar situations. Whereas, it is advisable and sometimes very easy for civilians and their families to avoid some types of stress, it isn t always as simple for first responders. The "Triad of Balance," however, can be an effective survival tool in dealing with the unforeseen stress that can t be avoided. This book was developed with a desire to help other first responders rediscover the happy side to their jobs and life! Thank you to all who have contributed stories to this book and, in the process, started on the journey to a balanced life. We trust you will enjoy the incredible, true and humorous stories from the men and women that we call first responders, working daily to protect the public on our nation s front lines!

BUL YAW! (Balance Ur Life You ll Always Win!")