The Journey to a Pair of Boots: So You're a Firefighter?

Today I had to go shopping for duty boots. For my new job, there were specific requirements as to what this boot should be made of and look like. The first store I went to, a lady asked me, how she could help? So I explained to her that I needed duty boots. She took me over to this small section and pointed to the options. I then told her that I needed steel toe, duty boots. She looked puzzled and asked me why I needed them? I began with my explanation.

Well, I am a firefighter with the city now, and their requirement is that the boots be steel toed. 

.....with a concerned look she states: 

Aren't you too little to be a firefighter? 

I left that store with nothing in hand asking myself why buying a pair of boots had to be so difficult, and emotionally draining..... 

I go to the next store. 

Same thing... 

And listen, I just need to buy these boots. I have to have a pair of boots in order to work. And again, it was pointed out that I was A.) A girl and B.) little. 

As I mosied around the store, trying to find what I needed (without help), trying to figure out what was the best brand, and trying to not cry with the pressure of buying a pair of freaking boots.... in steps another employee. 

He asked me how he could help me. 

I told him what I needed and he's response was--- "you must be a firefighter!" 

And I just smiled. "Yes I must be." 

Turns out he once was a city firefighter too.He took me through the whole store, let me try on several brands, and he talked with me the whole time about the fire service. He said to me, after I had, like Cinderella, found my perfect boot, " You are such a personable young lady and I have really enjoyed talking with you today. I see you having a long career and being Chief one day. Now,"with a little grin he said, "when you get into that position, don't forget us little people, especially the ones who helped you find just the right pair of boots.."  He winked and went on to help the next customer. He has no idea how much he was a Godsend for me, and I will forever be thankful for his encouragement!  

I have been labeled a lot in this past year. And in ways I am not use to. I've been told I am not good enough, I am not strong enough, not smart enough, not quick enough, not tall enough, not large enough... I've been told I am too skinny, too small, that I don't eat enough, that I am not cut out for, and not built for nor designed for firefighting. I am not use to being told no, which looking back, it is good all those people said those things, because it has made me dig deep to prove them wrong, and I continue to choose to dig deep every time I feel inadequate, or like a little girl playing dress up in a man's world... 

It is hard to push through all the nay sayers, but it is all up to you how you respond to people!  

I get asked how I ended up where I am today, and the answer is...God. I just came to a moment in my life where I had to do something in order to feel like I wasn't wasting away my 20's. The thought that I had nothing else left to accomplish stopped me in my tracks. Who am I? What am I offering the world? Am I doing all that I can to be the best version of myself? 

Firefighting does not define me but it has pushed me to dig deep into places I never knew existed and it has pushed me to discover a new depth to who I am. 

The biggest lesson of all that I have learned is that hard work, dedication and a commitment to never quitting will take anyone wherever they want to go. People may look at you like you aren't where you belong, but then others will be inspired by you, and will encourage you along the way! And of course, if you are at peace with God, you will always be where you are meant to be! So discover the world, be brave, and never let someone dictate your future or hold you back! And you by no means do you have to be perfect, or only do the things that you've been told you can do! Pick the thing that scares you the most and work hard to conquer it. ... No fear in life, no fear in death, it is Jesus who commands my destiny! 

So yes, I am 5'7" and weigh 135lbs with a blonde pony tail and blue eyes. I wear a size 9.5 shoe and rosie pink lipstick. I am single, no kids, and I am 25 and I have no college degree. I am not where the world tells me I should be at in life. A year and a half ago I was afraid of small spaces, afraid of the breathing apparatus and had never even ridden a fire truck. I was overweight, out of shape and mentally in a place that was quickly growing dark. I am stronger than I was both physically and mentally, and I still have a long ways to go, but I will continue to strive to be the best that I can be, and if I can do it, anyone can do it! 

Be strong, be brave, and fight to be the best version of you! 

xx

Chelsey 

And BTW: One day, wouldn't it be great if I had my own line of gear for women! I mean, top of the line duty boots in women's sizes not men's, pants, shirts, hats all designed for women... oh, and tools with shorter handles? Maybe even airpacks that allow for shorter torsos, helmets that give room for ponytails and fire gloves that fit my skinny fingers! Anyone want to help me start a company? ;)