We all have reasons to be EMS and like.
Some yes, its got nothing to live for.
Some for we have much to live for.
Some for those we lost, or wish was still alive.
Some to be sober. Or to show off.
And sadly yes, some fall off into needing it so much they commit acts that violate the ideals of a hero. Not the only time, such as the fires in California a few years ago, which was set by firefighters, cause they was bored, or needed a high or something?
I know the rush of waking up in the middle of the night, to go save someone can be almost an addiction. Adrenaline, testosterone can be addictive. As well as the respect people give you.
But yes, some fail and violate the public trust.
Why some say why some Soccer fans are not allowed on the continent of Europe cause their team loses and they riot.
Ethics are a bitch, but they exist for a reason.
Old days fire departments was not all that noble, more like protection. You pay for it, and we save you.. I know sad. Why fire/ems/police are paid for be the city and like. To keep them honest and give all citizens protection/service and not just those who have money.
Maybe why the idea of being a volunteer or just the long hours appeals more to people. It can be very noble, to give back to the community, to save people, and more, but yes, it has a price and for some it is wanting to do more, and feed the addiction? But it goes back to why we do it? For the money? Respect? Thrill of it? or what?
Me, I used to do it for something to do, to keep me going when things was bad. Or just to do what I did not get from being a Guard member, or stay sober? Yes, paid the price. Burned out, not as bad as some medics I have known. Gave me an idea of why they wanted to help, but not being able to, cause of old ghosts.. Still like to get back into doing EMS.. The respect is good. Even if others do not give it to you, but for yourself..
Respect from your neighbors? Power? Love? Just cause? The rush? Or even to do things to be better.. I know when I found myself on a scene and I was the only one, I had to make choices and decisions and it was against my normal mousing character.. Better than getting drunk and loose. To stand up and accept the challenge, make changes!?
But also to know when to back down, and stop. Sadly some do not know when to stop.
Serve and Protect? Cause no harm? Ethics?
Mike
Alaska